PGPR are beneficial microbes that colonize rice roots effectively and enhance plant growth through a wide variety of mechanisms. PGPR have the potential to replace chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture (Ashrafuzzaman et al, 2009). However, effective control of rice ShB is feasible only when these biopesticides are used in conjunction with low rates of
chemical fungicides (Van et al, 2001). Detailed studies on mechanism of action of commercial PGPR formulations and their population dynamics in soil under submerged crop conditions are essential to formulate effective ShB management strategies at field level.