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ICAR promotes sustainable farming under Khet Bachao Abhiyan
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Thursday, 29 October, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Our Bureau, Mumbai
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The ICAR–Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute (ICAR-MGIFRI), Motihari, Bihar, organised a farmer awareness and field interaction programme under Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026 at Kothia Hariram village in Mehsi block of East Champaran on October 27, 2026. The programme focused on balanced fertilisation, soil health management, nutrient recycling, crop diversification and sustainable management of mango and litchi orchards, with 29 farmers and participants taking part in the discussions.
Led by Dr Amol K. Jadhav, Scientist at ICAR-MGIFRI, the programme highlighted the importance of soil-test-based nutrient management and balanced fertiliser application in maintaining orchard productivity and long-term soil fertility. Dr Jadhav explained that excessive or indiscriminate fertiliser use can increase cultivation costs and lead to nutrient imbalances. He emphasised that fertiliser application based on soil-test results, crop requirements and orchard conditions can improve nutrient-use efficiency and support sustainable horticultural production.
The interaction also highlighted the role of nutrient recycling and the effective use of locally available organic resources, including crop residues, fallen leaves, farmyard manure and compost. According to Dr Jadhav, recycling these materials can improve soil organic matter, enhance soil structure and nutrient availability, and reduce dependence on external inputs. He also stressed the importance of integrating organic resources with balanced mineral fertilisation to support sustainable mango and litchi cultivation.
Crop diversification and intercropping in fruit orchards were discussed as strategies to improve land-use efficiency and generate supplementary farm income. Farmers were encouraged to adopt suitable intercrops, particularly legumes and other locally appropriate crops, based on orchard age, canopy coverage, seasonal moisture availability and crop compatibility. Such practices can help optimise resource utilisation while diversifying income sources.
Farmers shared their experiences and challenges related to fertiliser application, orchard soil health, organic resource management and intercropping. The interactive sessions provided an opportunity to discuss practical, economically viable and environmentally sustainable approaches to improving the productivity and profitability of fruit-based farming systems.
Through Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026, ICAR-MGIFRI is working to promote balanced fertilisation, soil health improvement, sustainable horticultural practices and efficient natural resource management through direct engagement with farming communities. The initiative aims to strengthen farmers’ self-reliance and encourage climate-resilient agricultural livelihoods in the mango- and litchi-growing regions of East Champaran, Bihar.
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