Posted On:
10 NOV 2026 4:40PM by PIB Gangtok
Pakyong, 10th November, 2026
ICAR-National Research Centre for Orchids (NRCO), Pakyong successfully organised an awareness programme on Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2.0 along with Janajatiya Gaurav Varsha Pakhwada for the organic farmers of Dikling, Padamchey, Lossing and Chalamthung villages of Pakyong District at its Conference Hall.
A total of 50 farmers and beneficiaries from the four villages participated in the programme and received plastic pots under the Tribal Sub-Plan Scheme.
During the programme, the Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2.0 team created awareness on better practices for healthier farms for the Rabi season. The sessions covered soil test based nutrient management, balanced use of fertilizers, natural and sustainable farming, water conservation, crop residue management, integrated crop management, crop diversification, farming system research, climate resilient agriculture, land use systems, hill agriculture, use of indigenous crops, promotion of organic farming, crop planning for reduced fertilizer dependency, promotion of scientific technology based sustainable farming, crop rotation, green manuring, intercropping and other organic substitutes, preparation of compost, organic nutrient solutions and their application, and integrated nutrient management.
The main objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2.0 campaign are crop residue management, integrated pest management, soil health management, climate resilient agriculture, and promotion of oilseeds and pulses. The campaign also aims to create awareness on soil testing based judicious and balanced use of fertilizers and other agricultural inputs including green manures, organic and bio-products, natural and organic farming, reducing use of chemical fertilizers and improving soil health and cultural practices. It further emphasises water conservation, rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge, while encouraging sustainable agricultural practices to conserve natural resources and ensure long-term sustainability of agriculture.
The campaign also aims to facilitate the creation of Farmer IDs, promote awareness about crop insurance under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), expand coverage under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme through saturation efforts, and disseminate information about the benefits and opportunities arising from trade agreements, along with training and demonstrations on farmers’ fields.
The nationwide campaign is being held from 22 October to 30 November 2026 in all states, districts, blocks and panchayats of the country by 4150 teams involving KVKs and ATMA and more than 12000 ICAR scientists.
The Janajatiya Gaurav Varsha Pakhwada is scheduled to be held from 1 November to 15 November 2026. Its objectives include awareness on socio-economic development, education and skill development, livelihood and entrepreneurship, art, culture and heritage through GI Tags, Digital Tribals, infrastructure development, governance and institutional strengthening, and awareness of ongoing schemes and field presence. It also aims to hold Tribal Agri-Entrepreneurship Summits connecting farmers and agri-start-ups, establish Tribal Farmers’ Markets for direct sale of produce, and set up Seed Banks to preserve indigenous crop varieties.
The programme was organised under the leadership of Dr. S. P. Das, Director, and coordinated by Dr. L. C. De, KBA and Janajatiya Gaurav Pakhwada Nodal Officer, with support from scientists Dr. N. S. Kalaivanan, TSP Nodal Officer, Dr. Chandan Gowda H., Dr. Nikhila V. A. and Dr. T. Rihne, along with administrative and financial staff, technical staff, supporting staff, young professionals and contractual staff of ICAR-NRCO, Pakyong, Sikkim.
The programme drew a positive response from the farmers and beneficiaries of Dikling, Padamchey, Lossing and Chalamthung villages.
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MPS/SK