Safeguarding Global Plant Diversity

The International Day of Plant Health 2024 – marked on 12 May under the theme “Plant health, safe trade, and digital technology” – showcases ICARDA’s crucial role in preventing the spread of pests and pathogens.

Every year, the world records around USD 220 billion worth of annual global economic losses due to damages to plants and crops from invasive pest species. The International Day of Plant Health, under the theme “Plant health, safe trade and digital technology,” advocates taking clear action to keep plants healthy and ensure food safety and safe trade for sustainable economies and livelihoods.

Dr. Kumari is one of the authors of a new research paper highlighting how ICARDA strives to safeguard plant health in line with international regulations to prevent the spread of pests and pathogens and enhance crop improvement efforts.