ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram Organises Awareness Programme on Balanced Use of Fertilizers and Organic Manures

5 June 2026, Lakshdweep

As part of the nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan (1–30 June 2026) under the Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav (MGMG) Programme, an awareness programme on the balanced use of fertilizers and organic manures was organized at the ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Regional Station, Minicoy, Lakshadweep today. The programme aimed to create awareness among farmers on sustainable nutrient management practices for improving soil health, crop productivity, and environmental sustainability.

An awareness lecture on the importance of balanced nutrient management for sustainable crop production was delivered highlighting the role of organic manures in improving soil fertility, enhancing soil organic matter, and sustaining long-term agricultural productivity. Various organic nutrient sources, including Farm Yard Manure (FYM), compost, oil cakes, biofertilizers, and green manures, were discussed in detail.

The session emphasized the use of organic manures as key strategies for maintaining healthy soils and promoting sustainable agricultural growth. An interactive discussion was held during the programme, during which farmers actively shared field-level issues, including flower drop in chilli and pest infestation in cabbage. Practical recommendations and scientific management practices were provided to address these challenges.

Demonstration on Green Manuring in Coconut Basin

As part of the campaign activities, a practical demonstration on green manuring was conducted to showcase the effective utilization of locally available organic resources for improving soil fertility. Fresh Gliricidia leaves were incorporated into a coconut basin after opening the basin and subsequently covered with soil.

A demonstration was conducted explaining the procedure and benefits of green manuring in enhancing soil organic matter content, nutrient availability, moisture conservation, and overall crop health. Farmers actively participated in the demonstration and interacted with the technical staff regarding the adoption of green manuring practices in their farms.

The programme concluded with active participation from the farming community and enhanced awareness of sustainable nutrient management practices, thereby contributing to the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan and the Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav (MGMG) Programme.

A total of 30 farmers and village representatives participated in the programme.

(Source: ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Island)