{
  "type": "article",
  "title": "Khaira Disease Threatens Paddy Yields, Gonda Agricultural Scientist Dr. Harpal Singh Details Treatment Solution",
  "summary": "Yellow and brown spots on paddy leaves indicate Khaira disease caused by zinc deficiency. Agricultural scientist Dr. Harpal Singh recommends spraying 1.5 kg zinc sulfate and 2 kg urea per acre to safeguard crops.",
  "content": "During the ongoing paddy cultivation season, crops face a heightened risk of infestation by various pests and diseases, among which Khaira disease poses a significant concern for farmers. According to Dr. Harpal Singh, an agricultural scientist at the Deendayal Shodh Sansthan Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Gopal Gram, Gonda, this condition stems primarily from a deficiency of zinc in paddy plants. If symptoms are not identified early and appropriate remedial action is delayed, plant growth can be severely stunted, leading to a substantial drop in overall yield.\n\nInitial Symptoms and Visual Indicators on Paddy Leaves\nPlants affected by Khaira disease appear visibly smaller, weaker, and less robust compared to healthy neighboring plants in the field. The onset of the disease manifests first on the foliage. Light yellow or brown catechu-colored spots begin to form on the lower leaves of the crop, gradually deepening in color as the condition advances.\n\nThe overall growth rate of infected plants drops noticeably below normal levels, creating uneven, stunted patches across the field. In more advanced stages of infection, the discoloration extends beyond the leaves, causing the roots of the plants to turn brown as well, which impairs their ability to absorb nutrients.\n\nZinc Deficiency and the Role of Excessive Fertilizer Application\nAgricultural scientist Dr. Harpal Singh highlights that zinc deficiency is the primary cause of Khaira disease. He warns farmers against the indiscriminate and excessive application of synthetic fertilizers. In particular, overusing urea in an attempt to force rapid growth can aggravate nutrient imbalances in the soil and crop.\n\nTo effectively address the shortage of zinc, targeted spraying of zinc sulfate is recommended. Adopting balanced nutrient management helps restore plant health without overloading the soil with unnecessary chemical inputs.\n\nRecommended Treatment Formula: Zinc Sulfate and Urea Mixture\nTo manage Khaira disease effectively, the agricultural expert advises applying a precisely measured foliar spray. For one acre of paddy crop, farmers should combine 1.5 kg of 33 percent zinc sulfate with 2 kg of urea dissolved thoroughly in approximately 150 liters of water.\n\nThis mixture should be sprayed evenly across the entire crop. The combination of urea and zinc sulfate allows rapid absorption of zinc through the leaves, helping plants recover from nutrient stress and resume normal physiological growth.\n\nField Inspection and Follow-Up Application After 8 to 10 Days\nIf symptoms of Khaira disease are not fully controlled after the first spray, farmers can perform a second application after an interval of 8 to 10 days, following the advice of an agricultural specialist. This follow-up treatment ensures that zinc levels are adequately replenished, accelerating crop recovery.\n\nRegular field monitoring remains crucial throughout the growing season. Farmers should never ignore early warning signs such as yellowing leaves or brownish spots. Prompt detection and correct chemical dosing minimize potential yield losses, and all fertilizer mixtures should strictly follow recommendations from certified agricultural experts.\n\nWhat this means for you\nAcross India: Timely detection of zinc deficiency and Khaira disease can help paddy farmers prevent crop loss and maintain yields.\n\nIn Gonda: Farmers in Gonda and nearby districts can save their paddy crops by applying the expert-recommended zinc sulfate and urea spray formula.\n\nQuestions & Answers\n\n1. What causes Khaira disease in paddy crops?\nKhaira disease is primarily caused by zinc deficiency in paddy plants and soil.\n\n2. What are the main symptoms of Khaira disease in paddy plants?\nSymptoms include light yellow or brown catechu-colored spots on lower leaves, stunted plant growth, and roots turning brown.\n\n3. How should the spray mixture be prepared for one acre of paddy crop?\nFor one acre, mix 1.5 kg of 33 percent zinc sulfate and 2 kg of urea in about 150 liters of water and spray thoroughly.\n\n4. When should the second spray be applied if symptoms persist?\nIf symptoms are not fully controlled after the first spray, a second spray can be applied after 8 to 10 days as advised by an expert.\n\n5. What practice should farmers avoid when managing Khaira disease?\nFarmers should avoid excessive and unnecessary use of synthetic fertilizers, particularly high applications of urea.",
  "url": "https://trendkia.com/en/national/dhana-ki-phasala-sukha-sakata-hai-khaira-roga-gonda-ke-krishi-vaijnanika-dr-harpal-singh-ne-die-bachava-ke-satika-upaya-16477",
  "category": "India",
  "publishedAt": "2026-08-14",
  "tags": [
    "Paddy Cultivation",
    "Khaira Disease",
    "Zinc Deficiency",
    "Agricultural Scientist",
    "Gonda News",
    "Fertilizer Management",
    "Crop Protection"
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "site": "TrendKia"
}