Biotic stress caused by insects, mites, plant pathogens, nematodes etc. is a major constraint in profitable and sustainable cultivation of several horticultural crops. Commercial horticulture, characterized by the adoption of improved varieties and hybrids including exotic ones, increased chemical input use, shift towards monocropping in larger areas, growing area under protected cultivation along with the changing climate has triggered perceivable changes in pest complex in horticultural ecosystems. The fast growing international trade in horticulture and movement of planting materials between countries had resulted in spread of exotic pests at faster rates. In spite of significant progress made in research, at field level, crop health management continues to rely heavily on pesticides. In this background, it is highly desirable to analyse and appraise the latest developments taking place in plant protection both at national and international level, identify gaps and chalk out a road map for safe and effective plant protection strategies.