Insect Pests of Bhut Jolokia

Bhut Jolokia is believed to have originated in North-east India. It is also known as "Bih Jolokia"/ "Bhut Jolokia"( in Assam), "red naga chilli"/ "Naga king chilli (in Nagalalnd) and "Omarok"(in Manipur). The heat value of Bhut Jolokia is 1,001,304 SHU which is measured in Scovile scale unit by calculating its content of capsaicin. The Assam government is now encouraging farmers for cultivating the Bhut Jolokia because its demand is rising in the Arabian and European countries, besides Australia and Venezuela. Even though, Bhut Jolokia is very important spice in North-east India but there are several production constraints which lead to poor yield. Bhut Jalakia growers usually rely on synthetic chemical, but it is not expected in organic farming. Use of natural enemies and biopesticides of insect pests is a best option as safe alternatives to synthetic insecticides. Hence, this has promoted research to develop in alternative management strategies which would be safer, effective and economical. It is also an important component of Integrated Pest Management.