ICAR-CCARI Conducted Awareness Programme on Balanced Use of Fertilizers under Khet Bachao Abhiyaan

    ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI), Goa, organized an awareness-cum-demonstration programme on the Balanced Use of Fertilizers under the ongoing ICAR Khet Bachao Abhiyaan at the Khazan land demonstration site in Merces, Goa. The programme aimed to promote soil health, nutrient-use efficiency, and sustainable crop production in coastal saline soils through the integrated use of organic and inorganic nutrient sources.

    During the programme, Phosphate-Rich Organic Manure (PROM) developed by ICAR-CCARI and organic manure developed by Zycon ReNew Energy Pvt. Ltd. were distributed to participating farmers. Scientists conducted field demonstrations on the application of these organic manures and highlighted their role in improving soil fertility, enhancing nutrient availability, and reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. Practical demonstrations were also conducted on balanced fertilizer use in rice cultivation, emphasizing soil test-based nutrient management and the integration of organic inputs for sustainable production in coastal saline ecosystems.

    A total of 15 farmers, including four women farmers, actively participated in the programme and interacted on nutrient management practices for improving crop productivity and soil health. Officials from the Directorate of Agriculture, Directorate of Fisheries, NABARD, GCCI,Zycon ReNew Energy Pvt. Ltd., entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders also attended the programme.

    The programme reinforced the objectives of ICAR’s Special Campaign on the Balanced Use of Fertilizers and Khet Bachao Abhiyaan, which seek to restore soil health, improve fertilizer-use efficiency, reduce input costs, and promote sustainable agriculture through scientific and environmentally responsible nutrient management practices.