Integrated Nutrient Management for Sustainable Agriculture organized by ICAR-CCARI, KVK North Goa

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, under the aegis of ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, organised an awareness programme on “Integrated Nutrient Management for Sustainable Agriculture” at Tivrem village in Tiswadi taluka, North Goa, on April 27, 2026. The programme was held under the National Awareness Campaign on Soil Health Management and the balanced use of fertilizers, with the main objective of creating awareness among farmers about the importance of the balanced and efficient use of organic and inorganic nutrient sources for maintaining soil fertility, improving crop productivity, and promoting sustainable agriculture.

    Farmers were sensitised to the importance of Integrated Nutrient Management in sustaining productivity of both annual and perennial crops in Goa under its lateritic soils, acidic conditions, and heavy monsoon rainfall. Experts explained that in crops such as paddy, vegetables, pulses, maize, finger millet, and fodder crops, heavy rains often lead to nutrient losses and reduced fertilizer efficiency. They emphasised the balanced use of chemical fertilizers along with farmyard manure, compost, vermicompost, green manuring, crop residue recycling, and biofertilizers to improve soil health and crop yield. In paddy, practices like Sesbania green manuring, azolla incorporation, and split fertilizer application help enhance soil fertility and reduce fertilizer dependence, while in vegetables and pulses, INM improves crop quality and profitability. In perennial crops like coconut, cashew, and spices, green leaf manuring, mulching, and organic residue recycling improve soil moisture, microbial activity, and nutrient availability, especially under rainfed conditions. The programme also highlighted that INM strengthens climate resilience, reduces environmental pollution, and supports sustainable agriculture for long-term food and livelihood security in Goa. The interactive session allowed farmers to discuss field-level issues and seek expert guidance on nutrient management and soil health improvement. A total of 16 participants, including 5 men and 11 women, attended the programme. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Sanjaykumar Vithalrao Udharwar, SMS (Animal Science), and Dr. N. Bommayasamy, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-KVK, North Goa.