Shimla, 1 June 2026. ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (ICAR-CPRI), has joined the nationwide “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” to promote soil health management, balanced fertilizer use, natural farming, and sustainable agricultural practices among farmers. The campaign was formally launched by Dr. Jagdev Sharma, Director (A), ICAR-CPRI, Shimla, he mentioned that the initiative focuses on efficient fertilizer use, soil health improvement, scientific crop planning through soil testing, and greater awareness of government welfare schemes to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability and farmer prosperity.

Under the institute’s “Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav” programme, today, two teams conducted awareness and outreach activities in villages of Shimla district. As part of the initiative, an awareness programme was organized in Domehar village. During the programme, scientists Dr. Som Dutt, Dr. Kailash Naga, and Dr. Manisha educated farmers about the principles and benefits of natural farming. They advised farmers to remain vigilant against counterfeit fertilizers and pesticides and stressed the importance of adopting sustainable farming practices. Practical demonstrations on the preparation of organic fertilizers and biopesticides were also conducted. Around 40 progressive farmers participated in the programme.

Dr. Alok Kumar, Head, Social Sciences, highlighted the objectives of the campaign, which include enhancing farmers’ knowledge and skills through training on balanced fertilizer application, green manuring, and the use of organic and biological inputs. He noted that the campaign seeks to promote natural farming through awareness programmes, field demonstrations, and practical training.

Dr. Pynbianglang K., Senior Scientist, informed that nearly 150 students and participants from DPS Ranipur, Haridwar (Uttarakhand), and the SVB College of Agriculture & Research Station, IGKV, Durg (Chhattisgarh), visited ICAR-CPRI on the same day. During the visit, Mr. Dharmendra Gupta, Technical Officer, briefed them on the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan and highlighted the role of science-based and sustainable agricultural practices in enhancing farm productivity, ensuring food security, and improving farmers’ livelihoods.

The scientists emphasized the importance of soil testing for determining crop nutrient requirements and advocated the balanced application of fertilizers based on scientific recommendations. Farmers were encouraged to adopt composting, green manuring, and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) practices to improve soil fertility while reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. 

SS/NK

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