On-Farm Demonstration on Biofertilizer Application for Sustainable Soil Health Management at ICAR-CCARI, Goa

29 June 2026, Goa

ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra, North Goa, under the aegis of ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, organized an on-farm demonstration on biofertilizer application for sustainable soil health management under the National Mission on Khet Bachao Abhiyan at Dhargal, Pernem, North Goa today. The programme aimed to create awareness among farmers on the importance of biofertilizers in enhancing soil fertility, improving crop productivity, and promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.

The programme included an overview of the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan and the various technology dissemination initiatives being undertaken by ICAR-KVK, North Goa, for the benefit of the farming community. Farmers were sensitized to the importance of biofertilizers in sustainable nutrient management, with special emphasis on the role of Bio Zn (zinc-solubilizing biofertilizer) in paddy cultivation.

A live field demonstration on the scientific application of Bio Zn was conducted to familiarize participants with its method of use and its benefits in enhancing zinc availability, promoting healthy crop growth, and improving yield.

A technical session on the scientific use of biofertilizers in agriculture highlighted the application methods and advantages of Bio Zn in enhancing nutrient-use efficiency, improving soil microbial activity, reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers, and supporting sustainable crop production. The interactive session concluded with discussions on biofertilizer application and integrated nutrient management in paddy cultivation, during which farmers' queries were addressed by the experts.

As part of the programme, liquid Bio Zinc (zinc-solubilizing biofertilizer) was distributed to 25 participants, including 10 farm women, for application in their paddy fields, and encourage the use of biofertilizers for enhancing zinc availability, improving crop growth and increasing rice productivity.

(Source: ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa)