This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the history, development, and application of pest control methods, with a particular focus on chemical pesticides and plant protection technologies. Designed primarily for undergraduate students of agriculture, it also serves as a valuable resource for postgraduate students of entomology, professionals in plant protection, and enthusiasts in the field. The text traces the evolution of pest management, from the early use of natural and inorganic compounds to the advent of synthetic pesticides like DDT and the development of modern formulations with reduced mammalian toxicity and quick knockdown effects. It also covers advancements in plant protection appliances, from hand-operated sprayers to aerial spraying techniques for large-scale pest control. Enriched with hand-drawn illustrations and insights from both Indian and international sources, the book combines scientific rigor with practical relevance. The authors extend their gratitude to colleagues and publishers for their support in bringing this resource to fruition.

H. Lewin Devasahayam after completion of his post graduate degree course from the Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi joined the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore in 1960 and served the University for 30 years in various capacities and retired as Associate Professor of Plant Pathology in 1990. He has published more than 50 research articles in various leading Indian and Foreign journals. He is the author of the books entitled ‘Practical manual of Entomology’, ‘Elements of Entomology’, ‘Illustrated Plant Pathology’ and co-author of the books ‘Crop diseases’ and ‘Diseases of spice crops’, and all the above books have been published by NIPA, New Delhi. He is also the co-author of the book entitled ‘Plant Ecology’ published by M/S. Agri-Biovet Press, New Delhi.

L. Darwin Christdhas Henry obtained his B.Sc.Degree in Botany from the Madras University Chennai. He continued his under graduate and post graduate degree course in Agriculture at Allahabad Agricultural Institute. He joined the Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University He has completed his doctorate degree, specializing in the field of edible mushrooms. He has published a number of research articles in National and International Journals. He has authored the books entitled ‘Crop Diseases – Identification, Treatment and Management’ and ‘Diseases of spice crops’, both published by NIPA, New Delhi and also the book entitled ‘Plant Ecology’ published by M/S. Agri-Biovet Press, New Delhi. He is also the co-author of the book entitled ‘Illustrated Plant Pathology’ published by NIPA, New Delhi. Apart from his wide exposure to different agricultural crops, he has specialized in the cultivation of different species of edible mushrooms.