Patna: The ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region (ICAR-RCER), Patna, organised a farmers’ awareness programme under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan at Karai village in Naubatpur block on Friday, focusing on soil health, sustainable farming and ways to improve farmers’ income.
The programme was conducted under the guidance of institute director Anup Das and saw the participation of 56 farmers, including 31 men and 25 women.
Farmers Advised To Reduce Chemical Fertiliser Use
Ujjwal Kumar, head of the Division of Socio-economics and Extension, stressed the need to protect soil health by avoiding the indiscriminate and excessive use of chemical fertilisers, including urea and diammonium phosphate (DAP).
He advised farmers to apply fertilisers according to soil-testing results and encouraged the use of green manure crops such as dhaincha, along with organic inputs including Jeevamrit and farmyard manure.
Kumar explained that regular application of organic manure improves soil structure, organic carbon content and water-holding capacity, helping maintain long-term soil fertility. He also highlighted crop rotation and other sustainable agricultural practices as ways to reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers.
Scientific Fish Farming And Pond Management
Biswajit Debnath, senior scientist at the institute, highlighted the importance of scientific fish farming, effective pond management and improved aquaculture techniques to increase fish production.
He encouraged farmers to adopt better fish-farming practices and make use of relevant government schemes to improve productivity and strengthen their livelihoods.
Focus On Livestock Health And Nutrition
Rakesh Kumar, a scientist at the institute, briefed farmers on government schemes related to animal husbandry and their benefits.
He emphasised the importance of balanced livestock nutrition, appropriate use of mineral mixtures and calcium supplements, regular deworming and timely vaccination.
He said proper animal healthcare and nutritional management were essential to improving livestock productivity and increasing farmers’ income.
Promoting Sustainable Agricultural Practices
The programme aimed to promote soil health conservation, encourage sustainable farming practices and improve farm incomes through scientific fish farming and better livestock management.
Umesh Kumar Mishra, member secretary for media at ICAR-RCER, Patna, said the initiative also sought to sensitise farmers to the judicious use and conservation of agricultural resources, contributing to more sustainable and productive farming systems.
