The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has reported major outreach achievements under its nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’, aimed at promoting soil health, balanced fertiliser use and sustainable agricultural practices.
The campaign, being implemented under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education, has reached nearly 2.712 crore citizens through digital and media outreach initiatives, according to an official statement issued on Thursday.
As part of the initiative, 12,979 awareness camps and seminars have been organised across the country so far, directly engaging around 7.17 lakh farmers on scientific nutrient management and sustainable farming practices.
To strengthen capacity building, 3,145 training programmes were conducted with participation from more than 1.11 lakh people. In addition, 7,928 field demonstrations were organised to provide practical exposure on green manuring, bio-fertilisers and organic nutrient sources.
The campaign also focused on grassroots participation through 4,916 Janpratinidhi Sammelans involving Panchayat representatives, Sarpanches and Zila Parishad members.
Recognising the role of agricultural input suppliers, the campaign conducted 9,609 interaction sessions with fertiliser and input dealers to spread awareness about balanced fertiliser application and soil conservation.
Farmer collectives were also involved extensively, with 8,383 farmer-members connected through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs).
For wider public visibility, banners, posters and hoardings were displayed at 53,616 locations across the country. The outreach effort was further amplified through 1,144 media broadcasts, including 944 radio talks and 200 television and digital programmes.
According to ICAR, the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ seeks to encourage soil test-based nutrient management while reducing excessive dependence on chemical fertilisers. The initiative aims to protect long-term soil fertility and promote environmentally sustainable agricultural practices across India.
