Heavy rainfall in parts of Uttar Pradesh has caused flooding in agricultural fields, severely damaging sugarcane crops. The rapid growth of sugarcane during the rainy season coincides with infestations by pests that suck sap from the leaves, causing discoloration. The state's Additional Chief Secretary for Sugarcane Development and Sugar Industry, Veena Kumari, has directed officials to engage with farmers in flood-affected areas. In fields where floodwaters have receded, management of root rot disease is underway, while prolonged waterlogging has led to outbreaks of whitefly pests. Both nymph and adult whiteflies feed on sugarcane leaves, turning them pale yellow. Farmers are urged to report pest and disease incidences to nearby sugarcane committees or councils and to the department’s toll-free number 18001213203 for timely diagnosis and control measures. Failure to control these pests and diseases promptly could result in significant economic losses for farmers. (Updated 18 Aug 2025, 15:38 IST; source: link)