A farmers’ training and awareness programme was organized at Batimira village in Biridi Block in Jagatsinghpur district of Odisha on 10th June 2026 with the objective of promoting sustainable agricultural practices through balanced fertilizer use, scientific nutrient management, and the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. The scientists of ICAR-IIWM, Bhubaneswar highlighted the importance of applying fertilizers based on crop requirements and soil health status, emphasizing that excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers can adversely affect soil fertility, crop productivity, and environmental quality. Farmers were encouraged to adopt integrated nutrient management practices by combining less use of chemical fertilizers with organic manures, crop residues, and biofertilizers to maintain soil health and improve nutrient-use efficiency. Considering the forecast of below normal rainfall during the current cropping season, the scientists advised farmers to plan their cultivation strategies carefully and opt for short-duration paddy varieties that require less water and can mature within a shorter period. Discussions were also held on water conservation measures, efficient utilization of available rainfall, and the need for timely crop management under uncertain climatic conditions. Special emphasis was given to the cultivation and incorporation of green manure crops such as Dhaincha (Sesbania spp.), which enrich the soil with organic matter and nitrogen, improve soil structure and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers. The programme also created awareness about the long-term benefits of soil health conservation and climate-resilient farming practices. Farmers actively participated in the interactive sessions, raised several field related queries and shared their experiences regarding fertilizer use, crop management, and rainfall variability. The enthusiastic participation of the farmers reflected their strong interest in adopting scientific and sustainable agricultural practices for enhancing farm productivity, improving soil health and ensuring the resilience of farming systems under changing climatic conditions. Total 15 nos. of progressive farmers participated in the programme.
