Epidemiological survey and pathogenic analysis of Rhizoctonia bataticola causing dry root rot in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in Sohawal block of Satna district, Madhya Pradesh

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a vital pulse crop in India, known for its high nutritional value and adaptability to various agro-climatic zones. However, dry root rot (DRR), caused primarily by Rhizoctonia bataticola (syn. Macrophomina phaseolina), poses a major threat to chickpea productivity. The present investigation was conducted during the Rabi season of 2024–25 to evaluate the epidemiology, incidence, and pathogenic nature of Rhizoctonia bataticola in the Sohawal block of Satna district, Madhya Pradesh. A systematic survey of ten chickpea fields recorded disease incidence ranging from 35.6% to 42.8%, with maximum severity observed in Sohawal village. Factors such as early sowing, absence of irrigation, and lack of seed treatment were found to contribute significantly to higher disease levels. The pathogen was isolated, morphologically identified, and its pathogenicity confirmed through pot culture experiments fulfilling Koch’s postulates. The study highlights the urgent requirement for integrated disease management practices.