ICAR-RCER–KVK Ramgarh Empowers Input Dealers as Soil Health Ambassadors under ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’

29 June 2026, Ramgarh

In a major initiative to promote sustainable agriculture and restore soil health, ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramgarh, successfully concluded a 15-day Capacity Building Programme on Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) under the "Khet Bachao Abhiyan" from 15–29 June 2026.

The programme trained 40 agricultural input dealers and rural youth from the districts of Ramgarh, Hazaribagh, Giridih, and Ranchi, equipping them with scientific knowledge and practical skills to serve as frontline advisors for farmers. Recognizing the strategic role of input dealers in influencing farmers' nutrient management decisions, the initiative focused on enhancing their technical competence in promoting balanced, efficient, and environmentally sustainable fertilizer use.

The comprehensive training combined expert lectures, hands-on demonstrations, and field-based learning on Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), 4R Nutrient Stewardship (Right Source, Right Rate, Right Time, and Right Place), soil test-based fertilizer recommendations, integrated use of organic and inorganic nutrient sources, biofertilizers, vermicomposting, micronutrient management, soil organic carbon enhancement, and climate-resilient nutrient management practices. Participants were also sensitized to the environmental and economic consequences of indiscriminate fertilizer use and the importance of improving nutrient-use efficiency for long-term soil productivity.

The programme reinforced the message that healthy soils are the cornerstone of food security, farm profitability, and climate-resilient agriculture. Scientists encouraged participants to act as change agents by disseminating scientific nutrient management practices and encouraging farmers to adopt soil test-based and resource-efficient farming approaches.

One of the key outcomes of the programme was the development of a dedicated group of "Soil Health and Nutrient Stewardship Ambassadors." The trained participants pledged to promote soil testing, balanced fertilization, integrated nutrient management, and eco-friendly agricultural practices while carrying forward the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan in their respective districts.

The initiative is expected to create a strong multiplier effect by strengthening last-mile extension services, enhancing farmers' awareness of scientific nutrient management, improving fertilizer-use efficiency, reducing production costs, restoring soil fertility, increasing crop productivity, and building climate-resilient farming systems across the region.

Through this flagship programme, ICAR-RCER–KVK Ramgarh has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering rural stakeholders, fostering sustainable nutrient stewardship, and advancing the vision of productive, profitable, and environmentally resilient agriculture.

(Source: ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna)