UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

Rice is of vital importance in India, serving as both a staple food and a key contributor to the nation's economy. Nutritionally, rice also provides protein, essential micronutrients, and fortified varieties that help combat malnutrition. It is integral to Indian cuisine, with dishes like biryani, idli, dosa, and pulao showcasing its versatility. This study evaluates the pesticidal efficacy of Syzygium cumini and Enicostemma hyssopifolium powders in controlling Sitophilus oryzae infestations in post-harvest rice. It focuses on their effectiveness in reducing pest populations, minimising grain damage, and preserving rice quality, while promoting sustainable pest management practices in post-harvest storage. The study was carried out in the Department of Zoology, A.N.D.N.N.M. Mahavidyalaya, Kanpur (UP, India). Syzygium cumini seeds and Enicostemma hyssopifolium leaves were collected and then identified. For the experiment, only fully intact and uninfected grains were chosen. The Silva method was employed to measure the grain's moisture content. The great efficacy of both plants, Syzygium cumini and Enicostemma hyssopifolium, in controlling Sitophilus oryzae infestations in stored rice. They showed significantly reduced grain loss, with the 15 g dose being the most effective. For Syzygium cumini, the 5 g, 10 g, and 15 g doses resulted in 20.91%, 16.34%, and 9.63% losses, respectively, while Enicostemma hyssopifolium showed 21.96%, 18.98%, and 9.84% losses for the same doses. The control group, with no treatment, experienced a 23.07% loss. These results highlight the potential of both plants as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides, reducing pest damage while avoiding the environmental harm, health risks, and pesticide resistance associated with synthetic chemicals. By supporting sustainable pest management, these botanical pesticides contribute to preserving rice quality, food security, and environmental health.  As such, the study demonstrates that botanical pesticides are not only a viable and effective solution but also the best method for eco-friendly pest control in rice storage.