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The influence of insects on human life - destructive and beneficial - can be traced back to prehistoric days until now. Agricultural entomology concerns itself with the study of insects associated with various aspects of agriculture. It deals with the study of both beneficial and detrimental insects. Insects that are detrimental to agriculture are commonly known as insect pests. The bulk of agricultural entomology deals with the control of those. Insect pest control is now conducted through integrated pest management (IPM) principles that aim to be sustainable in the use of resources and environmentally friendly. IPM requires plenty of experience and knowledge and combines all available methods of control. Prevention is also an important component of IPM programs.
In India, agriculture is the main occupation of the majority of people. The most important natural enemies of agricultural crops are insects, plant diseases, weeds and weather conditions. Out of this, insects are the greatest competitors of man in the struggle for existence. In the present topic the various kinds of pest will be studied in broad sense/view.

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Dr. C.S. Jawale, M.Sc. Ph.D., is professor and scientist. He is teaching students from 15 years to graduates and postgraduates. The author is doing research on animal toxicology and natural products. He has published 11 books and 27 papers.

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