Improved and safe storage practices for control of bruchids (Callosobruchus theobromae) in seeds of Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus L. var. typicus Prain)

Dolichos bean seed storage to protect from the attack of bruchid is a significant problem across the world.Bruchid attack leads to 100% damage, causing losses in terms of bean produce quantity and quality and making produce inferior for consumption.Purdue University developed Triple-layer bag-based PICS technology holding the promise for chemical-free storage on hermetic principles, which was explored for Dolichos bean storage to control pulse beetle infestation in the present investigation.Findings indicated the lowest infestation of bruchid in PICS bags at 2, 4 and 6-month periods of storage.PICS bag has not recorded any change in the temperature, whereas other jute and plastic bags recorded at par value changes according to the environment prevailing externally.PICS bags scored high relative humidity at twomonth intervals time, viz., 2, 4 and 6 months of bean storage as against other storage bags tested in the experiment.The present investigation confirms the efficacy of the triple layer-based PICS bags in managing the lowest bruchid infestation compared with other types of bags and advantageous over 3 differential periods of safe, hermetic storage of Dolichos bean produce from bruchids.