One farmers’ training cum demonstration programme on “Application of Bio-fertilizers (NRRI-Endo-NPK), Nano-Fertilizers and Sesbania Green Manure in Kharif Paddy for reducing dependence on Chemical Inputs” was organized on 21st August, 2026 at Haridamada village under the Farmer FIRST Project of ICAR–IIWM, Bhubaneswar to substantiate the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ initiative of the Govt. of India. Dr. Sumanta Kumar Mishra, Principal Scientist-cum-Principal Investigator, Farmer FIRST Project, explained the importance of integrated nutrient management in kharif paddy and elaborated on the role of bio-fertilizers, nano-fertilizers and Sesbania green manuring in improving nutrient-use efficiency, soil health and crop productivity. He also conducted a practical demonstration on the appropriate use of these technologies and sensitized the farmers on reducing excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers while maintaining sustainable crop production. The method demonstration on ‘Paddy seedling root dip treatment with NRRI-Endo-NPK bio-fertilizer’ was conducted for the farmers in a real field situation, which saves 10-25% chemical fertilizers while giving an additional yield advantage of 8-10% under the guidance of Dr. Hemanta Kumar Dash, Principal Scientist and Dr. Debabrata Sethi, Scientist. The participants were also demonstrated the ‘Application of nano Urea and nano DAP’ as economic and viable substitutes to conventional granular Urea and DAP through foliar spray at 20 days after transplanting (DAT) in paddy. In addition, the farmers were demonstrated the ‘Use and incorporation of Sesbania as a green manure’ for improving soil fertility and nutrient availability. The farmers were provided with hands-on knowledge and skill regarding the proper application and integration of bio-fertilizers, nano-fertilizers and green manuring practices under field conditions. A total of over 40 farmers participated in the programme and they were provided with critical inputs like, NRRI Endo-NPK, nano Urea and nano DAP. The programme was coordinated by the project team and assisted by project staff, namely, Ms. Isha Anindita Sahoo, Senior Research Fellow and Mr. Firoj Kumar Pradhan, Field Assistant.
