Technical Interface on Integrated Nutrient Management and Crop Resilience

A targeted technical interface was conducted on 12 May 2026 for the farming communities of Belse, Ankola; Madangeri, Kumta (Karnataka) and Barcem, Quepem (Goa), to bridge the gap between gap between traditional practices and evidence-based nutrient management. The session sensitized 15 male participants to the economic imperative of optimizing input-use efficiency, demonstrating how data-driven fertilization directly reduces cultivation costs and enhances net farm profitability. By integrating a breeding and genetics perspective, the expert highlighted how balanced nutrition unlocks the inherent yield potential of high-yielding varieties, which are often compromised by lopsided chemical applications. Farmers were urged to transition away from excessive chemical dependency, which often leads to soil degradation and environmental leaching, in favour of a circular approach that utilizes farm-derived biomass. The sessions were led by Dr. Shripad Bhat, Senior Scientist (Agricultural Economics), and Dr. Raghunandan K., Scientist (Genetics and Plant Breeding), who emphasized that sustainable intensification is the key to long-term agricultural viability.