New Delhi: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education has achieved significant progress through its nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’, aimed at promoting soil health, balanced fertiliser use and sustainable farming practices.
According to the Ministry, the campaign has so far reached nearly 2.712 crore people through various awareness and outreach activities conducted across the country.
Under the initiative, 12,979 awareness camps and seminars were organised, directly engaging around 7.17 lakh farmers. In addition, 3,145 training programmes were conducted with participation from more than 1.11 lakh people.
To encourage practical adoption of sustainable farming methods, 7,928 field demonstrations on green manuring, bio-fertilisers and organic nutrient sources were conducted.
The campaign also focused on strengthening grassroots participation. A total of 4,916 Janpratinidhi Sammelans were organised with the involvement of Panchayat representatives, Sarpanches and Zila Parishad members.
Recognising the role of fertiliser and input dealers, ICAR held 9,609 dialogues with dealers to spread awareness on balanced fertiliser use and soil test-based nutrient management.
Farmer collectives including Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs) were also involved, connecting more than 8,300 farmer members.
For wider outreach, banners, posters and hoardings were displayed at over 53,000 locations nationwide. The campaign message was further amplified through 1,144 media broadcasts, including radio talks and television or digital programmes.
The ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ aims to reduce excessive dependence on chemical fertilisers, improve soil fertility and promote long-term agricultural sustainability across the country.
