Patna: The Bihar government on Monday launched the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ to encourage balanced use of chemical fertilisers and promote natural farming practices across the state.
The campaign was inaugurated by Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha at Krishi Bhawan in Mithapur, Patna, in the presence of farmers and officials. The programme will continue until June 30.
During the launch event, participating farmers and officials pledged to begin natural farming on at least 25% of their agricultural land.
Focus on soil health and sustainable agriculture
Addressing the gathering, the Agriculture Minister said the campaign seeks to improve soil health and encourage farming practices that reduce dependence on chemical inputs.
He urged farmers to adopt soil testing and use fertilisers according to recommendations provided through Soil Health Cards, stating that balanced nutrient management could help reduce cultivation costs and improve productivity.
The minister said excessive use of chemical fertilisers has affected soil nutrient balance in several areas, according to soil testing results.
Natural farming push across all districts
The state government said natural farming is being promoted in all 38 districts under the National Mission on Natural Farming.
To support implementation, 800 ‘Krishi Sakhis’ associated with JEEViKA have been selected and are being provided a monthly incentive of Rs. 5,000 to assist farmers and spread awareness about natural farming methods.
For the 2026–27 financial year, the government plans to establish 114 new natural farming clusters covering 5,700 hectares.
Financial assistance for participating farmers
Under the scheme, farmers adopting natural farming will be eligible for financial assistance of Rs. 4,000 per acre, subject to a maximum of one acre.
The government has also provided for assistance of up to Rs. 1 lakh for setting up Bio-Resource Centres (BRCs). In addition, farmers seeking certification for natural farming can receive support through regional councils designated by the Union government, with a provision of Rs. 2,100 per hectare for certification-related activities.
Campaign to reach every village and panchayat
The Agriculture Department said preparations have been completed to implement the campaign at the village and panchayat levels across Bihar.
The initiative is centred on the principle of “less fertiliser, right fertiliser and proper guidance”, with the aim of reducing imbalanced fertiliser use and lowering cultivation costs.
Soil testing and field-level guidance
Officials said soil testing will be a key component of the campaign, with farmers encouraged to apply fertilisers based on Soil Health Card recommendations.
The programme will also promote the use of green manure, bio-products and natural farming techniques. Agricultural scientists are expected to visit farms and provide guidance on climate-resilient agriculture, crop diversification, water-efficient crops and risk management practices.
Agriculture Department officials and scientists outlined the campaign strategy during the launch event and said awareness activities would continue throughout June to encourage wider adoption of sustainable farming practices.
