Plant pathology plays a critical role in sustaining agricultural productivity and food security by studying plant diseases and developing management strategies. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the status and future prospects of plant pathology in India. The historical perspective highlights early developments, milestones, and key figures in the field, including the influence of colonialism and post-independence era on research. The current status section examines major plant diseases affecting crops, contributions of research institutions, and challenges faced by plant pathologists, including disease management practices, emerging diseases, and funding limitations. Technological advances, such as the role of biotechnology, molecular techniques for disease diagnosis, and integrated pest management approaches, are discussed in the context of addressing these challenges. The paper concludes with insights into the potential areas for research and innovation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and policy interventions for advancing plant pathology in India.

Plant pathology, India, crop diseases, research institutions, challenges, biotechnology, molecular techniques, integrated pest management, agriculture, sustainability.