29 June, 2025, Kolkata
A programme on Khet Bachao Abhiyan-cum-Krishak Mela and Input Distribution was organized by ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres, Barrackpore under the SCSP programme at Kamarhati village, Dhubulia, Nadia today. The main objective of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan was to create awareness amongst the farmers about balanced use of fertilizer by integrating biofertlizers to maintain the soil health as well as to sustain the crop productivity. It focuses on Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) and sustainable soil health management. During the programme, farmers were sensitized on key points to be considered for fertilizer application like right source, right dose, right time and right place of fertilizer application for improving fertilizer use efficiency and reducing input cost.
Addressing the programme, Dr Gouranga Kar, Director, ICAR-CRIJAF, advocated regular soil testing, balanced nutrient management, green manuring and vermicomposting, which can reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and judicious groundwater use to prevent arsenic contamination, describing Khet Bachao Abhiyan as a crucial initiative for protecting soil health and ensuring sustainable agriculture. He also emphasized the use of Soil Health Card, site-specific nutrient management, use of micronutrients, customized fertilizer application, neem coated urea and biofertilizers for maintaining long-term soil fertility and crop productivity while minimizing environmental pollution.
Farmers were made aware about the ill effects of indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers on the soil health. Farmers were also informed about various initiatives undertaken by the Government of India for promoting balanced fertilization of soil and sustainable agriculture across the country. He also highlighted the efforts of ICAR-CRIJAF in promoting eco-friendly, economically viable and climate-resilient farming practices amongst the farming community as well as skill development for farm women in making of jute diversified products for their socio-economic empowerment.
Sri Mahadeb Sarkar, RAC Member and Farmers’ Representative and local organizer of the programme praised the initiatives taken by ICAR-CRIJAF, Barrackpore for the cause of the farming community.
Farmers were also sensitized on improved paddy production technologies and were distributed quality certified MTU 7029 paddy seed and Battery operated power sprayers under SCSP program.
Around 200 farmers and farm women participated in this programme.
(Source: ICAR-Central Research Institute for Jute & Allied Fibres, Barrackpore, Kolkata)
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