An awareness-cum-demonstration programme on Balanced Use of Fertilizers (BUF) was organized on 15th June 2026 at Satyabhamapur village under Salipur Block of Cuttack district, Odisha, as part of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. The programme was conducted by Dr. R.K. Mohanty, Dr. B.K. Sethy, and Dr. Prativa Sahu with the participation of 47 farmers, including 22 female farmers. During the programme, scientists emphasized the importance of balanced nutrient management for maintaining soil fertility, reducing cultivation costs, and improving crop productivity. Farmers were sensitized on sustainable agricultural practices such as composting, crop residue recycling, pulse-based crop rotations, use of organic amendments, biofertilizers, and scientific fertilizer application methods to enhance soil health and agricultural sustainability. Discussions also included scientific fisheries management practices, focusing on pond water quality, nutrient management, and feeding strategies for better fish productivity. Practical demonstrations were conducted on the use of Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Trichoderma, Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria (KSB), nano-urea, nano DAP, vermicompost, Farmyard Manure (FYM), and green manuring with Sesbania (Dhaincha). Scientists also interacted with farmers on concerns related to declining soil fertility and imbalanced fertilizer use, highlighting the importance of integrated nutrient management and reducing excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers. Farmers were further trained on the multiplication of beneficial microbial cultures using cow dung-based organic media, followed by an interactive discussion to address farmers’ queries and field-level challenges.
