Workshop by ICAR-NRC Grapes, Pune and NAAS-Pune Chapter on Rational Fertilizer Use for Thriving Horticultural and Field Crops Organised

12 June 2026, Pune

As a part of Khet Bachao Abhiyan, ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune in collaboration with the Pune Chapter of National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) and the Society for Advancement of Viticulture and Enology organized a one-day workshop on “Rational Use of Fertilizers in Horticultural and Field Crops” today in hybrid mode. The workshop aimed to create awareness on balanced fertilizer use, promote sustainable nutrient management practices, and encourage collaborative efforts towards conserving soil health and ecological balance. 

Addressing the gathering, Dr Malavika Dadlani, the Chief Guest, highlighted the role of NAAS in supporting state-level agricultural policies by addressing regional agricultural needs. She described NAAS as a think tank and advisory body that facilitates collaborative and need-based initiatives in agriculture, with a focus on addressing emerging challenges and promoting sustainable development with grassroot level impacts. 

The programme kicked off with the welcome address of Dr Kaushik Banerjee, Director, ICAR-NRCG and Convener, NAAS-Pune, who emphasized the importance of rational and judicious fertilizer applications in horticultural and field crops in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa regions.

The workshop featured technical presentations by scientists from ICAR-NRCG, ICAR-DFR, ICAR-DOGR, ICAR-CCARI, ICAR-ATARI, Pune, and ICAR-NIASM covering experiences from awareness campaigns on rational fertilizer use under “Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav” and “Khet Bachao Abhiyaan”. They highlighted that excessive and indiscriminate use of fertilizers not only affected soil health and environmental sustainability but also reduced input-use efficiency and farm profitability. Stressing the need for scientific nutrient management, they called for greater awareness among farmers and stakeholders to adopt evidence-based rational fertilizer use practices. The concluding address by Dr K.V. Prasad, Director, ICAR-DFR, Pune further reinforced the significance of adopting balanced fertilization practices for ensuring long-term agricultural resilience. 

The program concluded with an interactive session involving participants from various institutions, and Fellows and Associates of NAAS-Pune reaffirming the collective commitment of researchers, policymakers, and extension agencies towards promoting sustainable nutrient management and strengthening the future of agriculture in the region.

(Source: ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune)