ICAR–VPKAS, Almora Empowers Over 100 Farmers through Khet Bachao Abhiyan

24 June 2026, Almora, Uttarakhand

As part of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, the ICAR–Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, organised a series of farmer awareness programmes across Naugaon, Gadsyari, Suri, and Jakh villages in Tarikhet block, and Harnauli village in Bhikiyasain block of Almora district. Conducted under the guidance of Dr Lakshmi Kant, the campaign empowered more than 100 farmers with scientific knowledge on sustainable agriculture, soil health management, and government welfare schemes.

The programmes focused on promoting scientific and sustainable farming practices, balanced nutrient management, and the importance of maintaining soil health for long-term agricultural productivity. Scientists sensitized farmers to the adverse effects of indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and emphasized the adoption of soil-test-based nutrient management and crop-specific fertilizer recommendations based on soil nutrient status and pH.

During the awareness programmes, scientists highlighted the importance of balanced application of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potash (NPK) fertilizers to improve nutrient-use efficiency while reducing soil degradation. Farmers were also educated on the benefits of bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides for enhancing soil microbial activity and promoting environmentally sustainable crop production.

Detailed technical guidance was provided on seed treatment practices, including the use of bio-agents and protective coatings to improve seed germination and protect crops against seed-borne diseases. Considering the unique challenges of hill agriculture, special emphasis was placed on organic and natural farming practices, including the use of Jeevamrut and Beejamrut, mulching, line sowing, and intercropping and mixed cropping systems to improve soil health while ensuring environmental conservation and sustainable production.

At Harnauli village, a special programme was organised jointly with the State Agriculture Department, where farmers were sensitized to various government initiatives, including the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, Agricultural Machinery Portal, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, Oilseed Mission, and other departmental schemes to help them avail available financial assistance and support services.

Farmers were also informed about horticulture development initiatives such as the Kiwi Mission, beekeeping schemes, high-density apple orchards, and protected cultivation for crop diversification and enhanced income generation.

During the interactive sessions, farmers raised concerns regarding crop damage caused by wild animals, inadequate irrigation facilities, lack of remunerative market prices, and the availability of quality seeds. Scientists addressed these challenges by providing scientific and practical recommendations and advised farmers on improving resource utilization while leveraging government schemes for sustainable agricultural development.

The awareness campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 100 farmers across the five villages, reaffirming ICAR–VPKAS's commitment to strengthening soil health, promoting sustainable farming practices, and enhancing the livelihoods of hill farmers through scientific interventions and effective extension services.

(Source: ICAR-Vivekananda Institute of Hill Agriculture, Almora, Uttarakhand)