As part of the ongoing Khet Bachao Abhiyan, an awareness-cum-capacity building programme on sustainable nutrient management and soil health improvement was organized on 30 June 2026 at Narisho village under Balipatna Block of Khordha district, Odisha. The programme was conducted by Dr. Prativa Sahu and Dr. Md. Shafeeq P.M. of ICAR-Indian Institute of Water Management (ICAR-IIWM), Bhubaneswar. The programme aimed to create awareness among farmers on soil health conservation, balanced nutrient management, resource-use efficiency, and climate-resilient agricultural practices. A total of 37 farmers, including 34 men and 3 women, participated in the programme. During the programme, the importance of balanced fertilization and integrated nutrient management for maintaining soil fertility and improving crop productivity was discussed. The role of bio-inputs and organic amendments, including Rhizobium, vermicompost, nano fertilizers, and other eco-friendly inputs, in enhancing nutrient-use efficiency while reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers was explained. The significance of integrated nutrient management, organic matter recycling, and sustainable horticultural practices for improving soil health and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity was also highlighted. Special emphasis was placed on soil-test-based nutrient management and the effective use of Soil Health Cards for scientific fertilizer recommendations. Farmers were encouraged to apply fertilizers based on soil nutrient status and crop requirements to enhance nutrient-use efficiency, reduce input costs, and improve crop productivity. The importance of crop residue recycling, green manuring, biofertilizers, and integrated nutrient management was also highlighted for restoring soil fertility, improving water-use efficiency, and promoting climate-resilient agriculture. Practical demonstrations on biofertilizers and integrated nutrient management technologies were also conducted. Beneficial microorganisms such as Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Trichoderma, Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), and Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria (KSB) were introduced, along with their role in improving soil health and nutrient availability. The participants actively interacted with the scientists and discussed practical approaches for enhancing soil fertility, crop productivity, water-use efficiency, and climate resilience.
