Sri Vijaya Puram, June 17: Khet Bachao Abhiyan awareness programme was organized on 16 June 2026 at Shoal Bay 14 Village, Ferrargunj Block with the objective of promoting sustainable agricultural practices and conserving soil health in the island ecosystem.
The programme was chaired by Dr. P. K. Singh (Principal Scientist), Team Leader, and Mr. Chittaranjan Raul, Scientist (Aquaculture), Mr Mohit, SMS (Plant protection), Village pradhan (Augustn Raj kumar), Agriculture officer Mrs Gyatri, ATMA representative Mrs. Arti A total of 25 farmers from the village participated actively in the programme. Total 18 farmers was present from which 12 was male and 6 female.
During his address, Dr. P. K. Singh highlighted the declining productivity of agricultural lands due to the excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers over the years. He emphasized the adverse effects of continuous inorganic fertilizer application on soil health, microbial activity, and long-term crop productivity. Dr. Singh discussed sustainable alternatives such as the cultivation and incorporation of Dhaincha (Sesbania spp.) as a green manure crop, judicious and balanced application of NPK fertilizers, and the adoption of organic and natural farming practices suitable for island conditions. He encouraged farmers to gradually shift towards eco-friendly farming systems based on crop suitability and local resource availability.
Mr. Chittaranjan Raul delivered a technical session on the utilization of Azolla in rice cultivation. He explained the role of Azolla as a biofertilizer and its contribution to nitrogen fixation, soil fertility enhancement, and reduction in chemical fertilizer requirements. He also demonstrated the potential of converting locally available aquatic weeds into valuable compost, thereby promoting waste recycling and sustainable nutrient management. Fish waste based liquid fertilizer preparation as a alternative of organic liquid fertiliser.
Mr. Mohit interacted with farmers how to use Brahmastra, jib Amrut for increases fertility of soil and reduce pest and disease vegetable crops. Uses of Trichoderma and BT as alternative use of pesticide for horticulture crop. Use of neemoil for millibug reduction in coconut plants.
