Sri Vijaya Puram, June 11: In a bid to promote sustainable agriculture and improve soil health, ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nimbudera, conducted a series of awareness programmes under the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026” campaign in Diglipur on June 8.
The programmes were organized in collaboration with the Union Territory Agricultural Technology Management Agency (UTATMA) and the Department of Agriculture, Andaman and Nicobar Administration. Awareness sessions were held at Santipur village under Swadesh Nagar Gram Panchayat for farmers and at Subhashgram Panchayat for local agricultural input dealers.
The initiative focused on creating awareness about balanced fertilizer use, sustainable soil management and the adoption of organic and natural farming practices to improve agricultural productivity while conserving soil resources.
The programmes witnessed active participation from farmers, agricultural input dealers and local representatives. A total of 38 participants attended the events.
Addressing the gathering, P.R. Singaram, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Subhashgram, emphasized the importance of balanced fertilizer application and the promotion of organic farming practices in the Diglipur region. He highlighted the need for farmers to adopt sustainable cultivation methods to maintain long-term soil fertility and agricultural productivity.
Experts from ICAR-KVK Nimbudera conducted technical sessions focusing on the judicious use of fertilizers based on crop requirements and soil nutrient status. Participants were informed about the adverse effects of excessive and imbalanced fertilizer application and the benefits of scientific nutrient management.
A key component of the awareness drive was the promotion of Soil Health Cards. Experts explained how the cards help farmers assess nutrient deficiencies in their fields and make informed decisions regarding fertilizer application. The use of Soil Health Cards, they noted, can improve fertilizer-use efficiency, reduce production costs and enhance crop yields.
Farmers were also encouraged to adopt organic and natural farming methods, including the use of organic manures, compost and biofertilizers. Resource persons explained that such practices not only improve soil structure and fertility but also reduce dependence on chemical inputs and contribute to environmentally sustainable agriculture.
A separate interaction session was held with agricultural input dealers at Subhashgram Panchayat. During the discussion, experts stressed the important role played by input dealers in guiding farmers on the responsible use of fertilizers and other agricultural inputs.
The participants were urged to provide accurate and scientific advice to farmers and ensure the availability of quality agricultural products. Officials emphasized that input dealers can serve as an important link between agricultural institutions and farming communities in promoting best farming practices.
The awareness programmes received a positive response from participants, many of whom expressed interest in adopting improved soil management techniques and sustainable farming methods in their fields.
Officials said such initiatives are essential for safeguarding soil health, improving crop productivity and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability in the islands.
The programme was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Y. Ramakrishna, Principal Scientist and Head (In-Charge), ICAR-KVK Nimbudera, and Dr. Jai Sunder of ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute.
With increasing emphasis on climate-resilient agriculture and efficient resource management, officials said awareness campaigns such as Khet Bachao Abhiyan are expected to play a crucial role in strengthening sustainable farming practices across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
