An awareness programme on Balanced Use of Fertilizers (BUF) was successfully conducted on 5th May 2026 at Hansapada Sasana village, Nimapada Block, Puri district, Odisha. The programme aimed to promote the balanced, judicious, and need-based application of fertilizers. The programme was organized by Dr. H.K. Dash, Dr. Sanatan Pradhan and Mr. Biswaranjan Behera. Dr. Sanatan Pradhan emphasised the need for soil testing and site-specific nutrient management for better soil health, while Dr. H.K. Dash highlighted the role of organic manures and biofertilizers. Mr. Biswaranjan Behera discussed Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) practices for major cropping systems. Farmers were sensitized on soil health management, INM, crop diversification, green manuring with Sesbania (Dhaincha), crop residue recycling, and efficient water management to improve nutrient use efficiency. The programme also highlighted waste-to-wealth approaches and the environmental and health risks of excessive chemical fertilizer use. The importance of biofertilizers and organic inputs, including Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), and Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria (KSB), vermicompost and Farmyard Manure (FYM) was also discussed. The programme witnessed active participation from 65 farmers, including 15 women and 50 men. Farmers actively engaged in discussions, shared their field experiences, and expressed interest in adopting integrated soil health management practices.
