Plant pathology is the bedrock of agricultural science, unlocking the mysteries of crop health and yield. In a world where new pathogens emerge and climate patterns shift, understanding plant–pathogen interactions has never been more vital. This book, "Objective Plant Pathology for ICAR JRF/SRF/NET with Explanations", is a focused, exam-ready companion for ambitious aspirants. It distills the essentials into a practical, structured resource tailored to competitive examinations. Approximately 2000 carefully selected multiple-choice questions cover core areas: History, Mycology, Bacteriology, Virology and Phytoplasma, Nematology, Plant Disease Epidemiology, Plant–Pathogen Interaction and Disease Resistance, Integrated Disease Management (IDM), and Recent Advances in Molecular Plant Pathology. Questions mirror the current ICAR syllabus and patterns, spanning varying levels of difficulty to promote conceptual mastery and analytical thinking. Concise explanations and answer keys accompany where appropriate, supporting effective self-assessment and learning reinforcement. Beyond exam prep, this compilation serves postgraduate students, researchers, teachers, and extension professionals seeking a reliable, self-study reference and practice tool. It aims to strengthen knowledge, sharpen reasoning, and inspire ongoing inquiry into plant health science. The voice of the author reflects mentorship and collaboration, with gratitude to mentors, colleagues, and students who helped shape the volume. Readers are invited to share constructive feedback for ongoing improvement and future editions. Whether you are preparing for a high-stakes test or seeking a thorough refresher, this book offers a clear, methodical pathway to mastering objective plant pathology. Let it accompany you on your journey toward expertise and impact in crop protection. Key features at a glance: • Broad coverage across major subfields, aligned with ICAR syllabi • A wealth of MCQs organized for progressive learning • Crisp explanations that illuminate concepts and applications • Practical relevance for exams, research, and extension work Prepare with confidence. Learn, analyze, and apply plant pathology with clarity and purpose.
Dr. Md Arshad Anwer is an accomplished plant pathologist and academician currently serving as an Assistant Professor-cum-Junior Scientist in the Department of Plant Pathology at Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, Bhagalpur, India. He earned his B.Sc. (Agri) from Allahabad Agricultural Institute, Allahabad, and pursued M.Sc. (Agri) and Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, where he was awarded a university merit scholarship. With over 18 years of academic and research experience, Dr. Anwer has made pioneering contributions in the field of biological control, microbial biopesticides, and plant disease management. He developed the low-cost, abiotic stress-tolerant microbial biopesticide Sabour Trichoderma-1, now commercially produced by private firms. His research also focuses on disease surveillance, postharvest pathology, and biocontrol innovations, and he has completed 19 research projects as Principal or Co-Principal Investigator. Dr. Anwer has guided several M.Sc. and Ph.D. scholars, one of whom won the Best University Ph.D. Thesis Award in 2022. He has published over 50 scientific works, including research papers, books, and book chapters, many in reputed international journals and publishers across the USA, UK, and Italy. His achievements include eight national and international awards, six Indian patents (four granted), and multiple copyrights. A reviewer for over ten high-impact journals and a member of several professional societies, Dr. Anwer continues to advance sustainable crop protection through innovation, teaching, and leadership in agricultural biotechnology.
1. History Special Reference to Indian Context...........................................1
2. Mycology...............................................................................................23
3. Bacteriology...........................................................................................93
4. Virology ...............................................................................................113
5. Phytoplasma and Spiroplasma.............................................................137
6. Phyto-Nematodes.................................................................................159
7. Viroids, Phanerogamic Parasites, Protozoa & Minor Pathogens.........179
8. Abiotic Stress.......................................................................................213
9. Questions from All Plant Pathology Areas...........................................235
