ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar organized an awareness-cum-training programme under the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” on 4th June 2026 at Village: Bhingarpur, Block: Balianta, District: Khordha, Odisha. Thirty-two farmers participated in the programme. Dr. S.K. Jena, Dr. B. S. Satapathy and Dr. Ranabir Chakraborty participated as resource persons. The programme focused on promoting soil health, balanced fertilization, and sustainable agricultural practices among farmers. Dr. S.K. Jena sensitized the participants on water conservation measures and climate-resilient agricultural practices such as mulching, broad-bed planting, and efficient irrigation methods to enhance water-use efficiency and reduce cultivation costs. Dr. B. S. Satapathy highlighted the importance of balanced fertilizer use and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) through the judicious integration of chemical fertilizers, organic manures, green manures, and biofertilizers for enhancing soil fertility, nutrient-use efficiency, and crop productivity. He also elaborated on the multifaceted benefits of cow dung and cow urine as valuable resources for improving soil health and supporting sustainable farming systems. Further, he encouraged farmers to adopt natural farming practices and utilize indigenous inputs such as Ghanajeevamrit and Jeevamrit to improve soil biological activity and reduce dependence on external inputs. Emphasis was also placed on the use of locally available plant-based formulations prepared from neem leaves, karanj leaves, and other traditional resources for the eco-friendly management of insect pests and diseases. Dr. Ranabir Chakraborty emphasized the importance of soil-test-based nutrient management and the effective utilization of Soil Health Cards for scientific and balanced fertilizer applications. He also demonstrated seed treatment and biofertilizer application techniques and explained their role in enhancing nutrient-use efficiency, improving crop productivity, and maintaining long-term soil health.The farmers actively interacted with the scientists and discussed challenges related to nutrient management and crop production. The programme concluded with an appeal to adopt sustainable farming practices for achieving healthy soils, healthy crops, and higher farm profitability under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan.
