Sri Vijaya Puram, June 10, 2026: As part of the nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan aimed at promoting soil health and sustainable agricultural practices, an awareness programme was organized at Old Bimblitan Village, South Andaman, on June 10, 2026.
The programme was conducted by a team comprising Dr. P. A. Bala, Principal Scientist; Dr. Abhilash, Scientist; and Dr. Chaitrashree, Scientist, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), Sri Vijaya Puram, along with Dr. Y. Ramakrishna, Principal Scientist, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Sippighat, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), South Andaman.
A total of 22 farmers, including 16 male and 6 female participants, attended the programme and actively interacted with the experts. During the interaction, the scientists emphasized the importance of soil health management as the foundation of sustainable crop production. Farmers were advised to undertake periodic soil testing to assess the nutrient status of their fields and to adopt balanced nutrient management practices based on soil test recommendations. The team highlighted the role of organic manures, green manuring, crop diversification with legumes, and integrated nutrient management in maintaining long-term soil fertility and productivity.
The farmers were also encouraged to cultivate green manure crops and incorporate them into the soil to enhance organic matter content and improve soil structure. Special emphasis was given to crop diversification with legumes, which can naturally enrich soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation. To reduce dependence on external inputs and promote eco-friendly farming, the scientists recommended the adoption of indigenous bio-inputs such as Jeevamrut and Neemastra, which help improve soil microbial activity and support sustainable crop production.
The participating farmers showed keen interest in the discussions and positively interacted with the team. They expressed their willingness to adopt the recommended sustainable soil and crop management practices for improving soil health, reducing cultivation costs, and enhancing farm productivity. The programme concluded with a collective commitment towards protecting soil resources and promoting sustainable agriculture under the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan.