‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ sensitises over 7.17 lakh farmers on balanced fertiliser use

Ziraat Times News Desk

New Delhi, May 22: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has reported significant progress under its nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’, with the campaign reaching nearly 2.712 crore citizens and directly sensitising more than 7.17 lakh farmers on balanced fertiliser use, soil health and sustainable agriculture practices.

Launched under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education, the campaign aims to promote soil test-based nutrient management and reduce excessive dependence on chemical fertilisers to protect soil fertility and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.

According to official figures, a total of 12,979 awareness camps and seminars have been organised across the country under the initiative so far. These programmes directly engaged farmers and stakeholders on scientific nutrient management and sustainable farming practices.

To strengthen capacity building, 3,145 training programmes were conducted in which 1,11,509 participants took part. In addition, 7,928 field demonstrations focusing on green manuring, bio-fertilisers and organic nutrient sources were organised to provide practical exposure to farmers.

The campaign also focused on grassroots-level participation. Around 4,916 Janpratinidhi Sammelans were held with the involvement of Panchayat representatives, Sarpanches and Zila Parishad members to promote awareness regarding balanced fertiliser use and soil conservation.

Recognising the importance of the agricultural input supply chain, ICAR also organised 9,609 dialogues with fertiliser and input dealers to encourage responsible and balanced use of fertilisers among farmers.

The campaign further connected with farmer collectives by engaging 8,383 farmer-members through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Self Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs).

For wider outreach and visibility, publicity material including banners, posters and hoardings was displayed at 53,616 locations across the country.

The awareness drive was also amplified through media and digital platforms. A total of 1,144 media broadcasts were conducted, including 944 radio talks and 200 television and digital programmes. Officials said the campaign’s social media outreach alone helped extend its message to over 2.712 crore people nationwide.

The ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ seeks to encourage farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices while safeguarding long-term soil productivity and environmental health.