ICAR-DFR, Pune Oganises Awareness Programme on Soil Health Management under ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’

5 June 2026, Pune

ICAR–Directorate of Floricultural Research, Pune, organized an awareness programme on soil health management under the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” campaign at Village Sahajpur, Taluka Daund, Pune, in collaboration with the College of Agriculture, Pune and the Department of Agriculture, Government of Maharashtra.

The programme was conducted in the presence of Mrs. Kajal Mhetre, Sarpanch, Gram Panchayat Sahajpur, and Dr Subhash Bhalekar, Associate Dean, College of Agriculture, Pune. The awareness programme focused on promoting sustainable soil and nutrient management practices among farmers.

Participants were sensitized to the principles and benefits of natural farming, with emphasis on improving farm profitability while ensuring the production of nutritious food. A practical demonstration on scientific soil sampling techniques was conducted to educate farmers on the proper collection of representative soil samples for laboratory analysis.

Farmers were also guided on the interpretation of Soil Health Cards and the importance of adopting soil test-based fertilizer recommendations to improve crop productivity and nutrient-use efficiency. In addition, a field-level demonstration on the identification of nutrient deficiency symptoms in standing crops enabled farmers to better recognize and address nutrient-related issues in a timely manner.

Technical sessions highlighted the importance of balanced fertilizer management, emphasizing judicious and site-specific nutrient application. Farmers were also informed about various government schemes and support programmes available for the agricultural sector.

Special emphasis was placed on the role of green manuring in enhancing soil fertility, improving soil organic matter, and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. The benefits of bio-inputs, including biofertilizers and other biological soil amendments, were also discussed as sustainable approaches for maintaining soil health and supporting environmentally friendly farming practices.

The programme concluded with an interactive discussion session, during which farmers shared their experiences and raised queries. Participants were encouraged to adopt integrated nutrient management practices to ensure sustainable soil health, enhanced crop productivity, and long-term farm profitability.

A total of 53 farmers, including 39 men and 14 women, participated in the programme.

(Source: ICAR–Directorate of Floricultural Research, Pune)