ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneswar conducted an awareness programme on “Balanced Use of Fertilizers in Agriculture” on 18th May 2026 at Darpanarayanpur village of Ranapur Block, Nayagarh District. Dr. Ashok K. Nayak, Dr. Pravukalyan Panigrahi and Dr. Sridhar Patra, Pr. Scientists of the Institute attended the programme. Dr. Panigrahi elaborated the importance of balanced nutrient management for sustaining soil fertility and crop productivity. He discussed about the role of organic and inorganic nutrient sources, including FYM, compost, green manuring, biofertilizers in crop production. The importance of Dhanicha (Sesbania bispinposa) cultivation before kharif rice was emphasized for balance use of fertilizers. Dr. Sridhar Patra discussed the need of scientific water management and climate-resilient agricultural practices in the region. He explained about the various in-situ moisture conservation techniques such as mulching, ridge and furrow planting, and efficient irrigation methods for improving water productivity. Dr. A. K. Nayak explained the use of modern ICT tool in agricultural water management. The installation and use of Bharat-VISTAAR app was also discussed in the meeting. Around 15 farmers participated in the awareness programme.
