ICAR's Khet Bachao Abhiyan records significant achievements nationwide

ICAR's 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' has recorded significant nationwide achievements in promoting soil health and sustainable farming. The initiative has engaged over 7.17 lakh farmers through thousands of awareness camps, seminars, and training programs.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) under the Department of Agriculture Research and Education has recorded significant achievements under its nationwide 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan', which focuses on soil health, balanced fertiliser use, and sustainable agriculture, the release said.

Massive Outreach Efforts

The 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' campaign has established a robust outreach across the country through multiple platforms to educate farmers and stakeholders on scientific nutrient management. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare stated that under the Abhiyan, a total of 12,979 awareness camps and seminars have been conducted so far, directly engaging 7.17 lakh farmers.

Practical Training and Demonstrations

To build capacity, 3,145 training programmes were organised in which 1,11,509 participants took part. Practical knowledge was imparted through 7,928 field demonstrations on green manuring, bio-fertilisers, and organic sources.

Engaging Local Governance and Supply Chain

To ensure grassroots participation, 4,916 Janpratinidhi Sammelans were held with active involvement of Panchayat, Sarpanch, and Zila Parishad members. Recognising the role of the input supply chain, 9,609 dialogues with input dealers were held to spread awareness on balanced fertiliser use.

Leveraging Farmer Collectives

The campaign also leveraged farmer collectives, connecting 8,383 farmer-members through FPOs, SHGs, and FIGs.

Widespread Publicity and Digital Reach

For wider visibility, publicity material including banners, posters, and hoardings was displayed at 53,616 locations across the country. The message was further amplified through 1,144 media broadcasts, which included 944 radio talks and 200 TV/digital programmes. Digital outreach through social media platforms extended the campaign's reach to 2.712 crore people.

Core Objectives of the Abhiyan

The 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' initiative aims to encourage soil test-based nutrient management and reduce overdependence on chemical fertilisers, thereby protecting soil fertility and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability. (ANI)

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