The health of Myanmar’s crops—and, by extension, its food security and agricultural trade—depends heavily on one key agency: the Plant Protection Division (PPD) under the Department of Agriculture (DOA), Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation (MOALI). This division plays a crucial role in pest surveillance, quarantine enforcement, farmer training, and emergency response against crop threats. … Read more
In the battle against pests and plant diseases, no single department can stand alone. Pest outbreaks and disease incursions cross boundaries—geographical, administrative, and technical—demanding unified and timely responses. Myanmar has increasingly recognized the importance of interdepartmental coordination in safeguarding agriculture. Through integrated efforts among government ministries, research institutions, and regional offices, the country has made … Read more
Plant protection is a fundamental pillar of agricultural sustainability and trade security. In Myanmar, the legal framework governing plant protection has gradually evolved in response to growing pest threats, international trade requirements, and environmental concerns. This evolution reflects the country’s increasing commitment to biosecurity, safe agricultural practices, and global compliance. This article explores the historical … Read more
In the face of rising global threats to agriculture—from invasive pests to cross-border plant diseases—plant biosecurity has become an urgent national priority. In Myanmar, the Department of Agriculture (DOA) serves as the frontline defender of plant health. Through an extensive network of divisions, regulatory frameworks, and scientific capabilities, the DOA plays a central role in … Read more
The Plant Protection Division (PPD) of Myanmar stands as a cornerstone institution within the country’s agricultural sector, dedicated to safeguarding crops from pests, diseases, and other phytosanitary threats. Functioning under the Department of Agriculture (DOA), PPD plays a pivotal role in supporting food security, trade facilitation, and sustainable agriculture. This article provides an in-depth exploration … Read more
In the face of climate change, global trade, and the rapid spread of plant pests and diseases, real-time data and spatial awareness have become crucial for protecting agricultural systems. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) offer a powerful solution. By mapping, analyzing, and visualizing spatial data, GIS is transforming how countries and institutions monitor plant health, assess … Read more
Introduction Transboundary plant diseases do not recognize borders. In crop-shared regions—areas where countries grow the same or similar crops across shared boundaries—the threat of disease spread is constant and growing. These diseases, often driven by cross-border trade, climate change, and shared ecosystems, can wipe out harvests, cripple food security, and strain bilateral relations. Safe and … Read more
Introduction When pests strike, the speed of response determines the scale of damage. Yet in many rural and agricultural communities, pest outbreaks are reported too late—after significant crop losses have occurred. Enter Farmer Observatories: a grassroots solution to strengthen real-time pest surveillance through direct participation of those on the frontlines—farmers. These community-based platforms are transforming … Read more
Introduction In a world where plant pests and pathogens are spreading faster than ever—thanks to global trade, climate change, and expanding agricultural frontiers—early and accurate diagnosis is critical. Traditional lab-based identification is often too slow for real-time pest management. That’s where field diagnostic tools step in. These portable, rapid-response technologies allow farmers, inspectors, and plant … Read more
Introduction The Plant Protection Division (PPD) plays a vital role in Myanmar’s agricultural development, acting as the primary authority on pest and disease management. However, its true strength comes from strategic alignment with the overarching goals of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation (MOALI). Through integration, coordination, and responsiveness, PPD ensures its programs serve … Read more