Jute under siege: A deep dive into stem rot disease caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid.

Jute stem rot disease, caused by Macrophomina phaseolina, presents a multifaceted challenge to jute cultivation. While diseases caused by this pathogen have been reviewed extensively in several other crops, a dedicated examination of its impact on jute (Corchorus capsularis and C. olitorius) is long overdue. Continued research and innovation in disease management will be crucial for ensuring the prosperity of this important fibre crop. We present here various aspects of the jute stem rot disease, including its history, epidemiology, molecular basis of host resistance and multipronged management strategies. One of the key takeaways from this review is the importance of host resistance. Although jute lines with complete resistance to JSR are yet to be identified, several moderately resistant cultivars have shown promise in reducing disease incidence. The review underscores the value of emerging areas of research viz. nano-pesticides, genetic engineering in developing an integrated disease management approach for jute stem rot. Based on the current knowledge, we propose a model for the interaction between jute and M. phaseolina that aims to shed light on the dynamic relationship between them. As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, the insights and strategies discussed in this review provide a foundation for sustainable and resilient jute cultivation in the face of challenges posed by stem rot disease.