A sensitization workshop of Sarpanch and other PRI members of Puri district was conducted by ICAR-IIWM Bhubaneswar on 12-06-2026 on the topic “Khet Bachao Abhiyan and Balanced Use of Fertilizers Awareness (BUFA) campaign”. The program was attended by 76 participants of Puri district, out of which 10 were female. Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest, Sri Ashrit Pattanayak, Hon’ble MLA of Delanga- Pipili constituency addressed the gathering to spread the message of khet bachao abhiyan and balanced use of fertilizers among farmers under their jurisdiction. The participants were trained on importance of Khet bachao abhiyan and different ways to improve physical, chemical and biological properties of soil. The importance of organic material inclusion and improving soil biological property to enhance fertility and carrying capacity of land for sustainable agriculture was explained. Balanced use of fertilizers using soil health card and application of nano DAP and nano Urea in right time for seed treatment and foliar application to reduce dependence on chemical fertilizer were discussed. The participants were encouraged to use green manuring crops like Dhanicha cultivation, use of bio fertilizers and bio stimulants to reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers. The program was conducted by scientists of the institute viz. Dr. R.K. Panda, Dr. S.K. Rautaray, Dr. Sanatan Pradhan and Dr. Debabrata Sethi
