ISLAMABAD: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has launched a new research project to help countries detect, monitor and control crop diseases that spread across borders and threaten global food security.
In its latest bulletin, the IAEA said the coordinated research project (CRP) will support countries in developing and testing new technologies to improve disease monitoring, diagnosis and sustainable management. It said nuclear and related biotechnologies can support existing plant protection methods.
The agency said modern tools such as advanced imaging and sensor-based technologies, including hyperspectral and near-infrared sensing, can help scientists study crops more effectively.
When combined with molecular tests and portable detection tools, these methods can help identify diseases at an early stage and improve monitoring systems.
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The IAEA warned that crop diseases are spreading faster than before, putting food supplies and farmers’ livelihoods at risk. It said climate change, growing international trade and the movement of infected seeds and plants are increasing the spread of diseases across countries.
Five-year project:
To tackle this issue, the IAEA, through its Joint FAO/IAEA Centre, has launched a five-year research project to improve plant health systems using nuclear and related technologies.
The project will bring together scientists and research institutions from different countries. It will focus on early detection, monitoring and control of diseases affecting major crops such as wheat, potato and cassava, which are important for food security in many regions.
The agency highlighted serious diseases like wheat blast, potato late blight, potato bacterial wilt and cassava witches’ broom, saying these can spread quickly and cause heavy crop losses. It added that once these diseases spread widely, they become difficult to control and can overwhelm national plant protection systems.
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The IAEA also noted that early detection remains a major challenge, as many infections stay hidden in the early stages. It warned that rising temperatures and expanding trade may further increase the risk of rapid disease spread.
Core objective:
The main aim of the project is to improve cooperation among scientists, research institutes and plant protection authorities worldwide. Through joint research and shared methods, countries will develop practical tools suited to different farming systems.
The project will also help create common monitoring systems and strengthen global plant health networks. It will support the sharing of data, research materials and best practices. Regular meetings will be held to review progress and build technical skills in areas such as molecular testing, digital crop analysis and biological control.
According to the IAEA, the project aims to improve preparedness and response to crop diseases by combining modern technologies with sustainable farming practices.
It also plans to develop low-cost diagnostic tools and standard methods for early disease detection. In addition, it will improve image- and sensor-based techniques to help quickly identify disease-resistant crops.
