An Awareness -cum- Farmer–Scientist Interaction Programme on Science-based Balanced Use of Fertilizers was organised on 26th June 2026 at Baligundi village, Sarakana Gram Panchayat, Balianta Block, Khordha district, Odisha, under the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ of the Government of India in collaboration with Sishu Ananta Farmer Producer Company Ltd., Balipatana, Khordha. Dr. S. K. Mishra, Principal Scientist, explained the objectives of the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ and highlighted the importance of science-based balanced fertilizer use for conserving soil health, a living resource vital for food, nutritional, and environmental security. He stressed the need for balanced fertilization, enhancement of soil organic matter, and reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability. He elaborated on the benefits of farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost, green manuring with Sesbania (Dhaincha), nitrogen-fixing leguminous crops, Azolla, Blue-Green Algae, Leaf Colour Chart (LCC)-based nitrogen application, Nano-Urea, and Nano-DAP in improving nutrient-use efficiency and sustaining crop productivity. Dr. Mishra also sensitized farmers to the adverse effects of continuous nutrient mining, declining soil fertility, and imbalanced fertilizer use. He emphasized integrated nutrient management, recycling of locally available farm resources, and the judicious integration of organic and inorganic nutrient sources to improve soil health, reduce cultivation costs, and sustain crop productivity. Dr. Ashis Maity, Principal Scientist, discussed the importance of crop residue incorporation, conservation agriculture, and moisture conservation practices in enhancing soil health and resilience to climatic stresses. He demonstrated the preparation and application of bio-inputs such as Beejamrut, Ghan Jeevamrut, Brahmastra, and Neemastra. He further explained how liquid or carrier-based bio-fertilizers, when incubated with cow dung for 12–15 days under suitable conditions, enhance beneficial microbial populations, improve nutrient availability, and increase crop productivity. Sri Kalandi Behera, CEO of the Farmer Producer Company, encouraged farmers to adopt scientific soil health management practices and disseminate the knowledge gained among fellow farmers. The programme concluded with an interactive discussion during which farmers shared their field experiences and received practical recommendations from the scientists. A total of 35 participants, including 22 farm women, attended the programme and collectively pledged to adopt soil-friendly and sustainable agricultural practices.
