Correct option is B
✅ (b) Pod formation stage: •
Helicoverpa armigera (Gram pod borer) is a serious pest of chickpea (gram). • The larvae bore into pods, feed on developing seeds during the flowering and pod formation stage. • This leads to direct yield loss and seed quality deterioration.
❌ (a) Germination stage: • This pest doesn't target seedlings.
❌ (c) Maturity stage: • By this stage, most damage is already done.