An awareness programme on Balanced Use of Fertilizers (BUF) was organised on 01 June 2026 at Belera village under Salipur Block of Cuttack district, Odisha. The programme was conducted by Dr. H.K. Dash and Mr. Biswaranjan Behera. Dr. H.K. Dash explained the role of organic manures and biofertilizers in improving soil health and reducing excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers. Mr. Biswaranjan Behera discussed Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) practices for major cropping systems and highlighted strategies to enhance fertilizer-use efficiency. Farmers were sensitized on various aspects of soil health management, including INM, crop diversification, green manuring with Sesbania/Dhaincha, crop residue recycling, and efficient water management practices. The importance and use of biofertilizers and organic nutrient sources such as Rhizobium, Azotobacter, PSB, KSB, vermicompost, and Farmyard Manure (FYM) were explained through discussion and demonstration. Dhaincha seed was also distributed for demonstration in selected farmers’ plots. A total of 51 farmers, including 17 women and 34 men, actively participated in the programme and showed interest in adopting integrated soil and nutrient management practices.
