ICAR-CCARI, KVK, North Goa Organizes Khet Bachao Abhiyan-cum-Training on Integrated Nutrient Management for Sustainable Crop Production

ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa, organized a Khet Bachao Abhiyan-cum-Training on Integrated Nutrient Management for Sustainable Crop Production at Cumbharjua, Tiswadi, North Goa, in collaboration with the ATMA, North Goa; the Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Goa; the Goa State Cooperative Bank Ltd.; and Cumbharjua Gawant Multipurpose Agricultural Cooperative Society Ltd. The programme aimed to promote sustainable soil management, balanced nutrient application, soil health conservation and integrated nutrient management practices for enhancing crop productivity and maintaining long-term soil fertility.

The session covered the principles of organic agriculture, preparation of enriched organic manures, use of fermented liquid manures, intercropping, and organic pest and disease management in vegetable crops. The importance of the Fertilizer Calculator Goa offline mobile application for soil-test-based fertilizer recommendations was highlighted to reduce excessive chemical fertilizer use and promote sustainable farming.

Participants were briefed on various agricultural schemes and subsidies offered by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Goa, along with the benefits of community-based farming and collective action in improving resource utilization, productivity, and farmers’ livelihoods. The role of Gliricidia as green manure and supplementary livestock fodder was also discussed, emphasizing integrated crop-livestock farming and efficient recycling of farm resources to reduce input costs.

The importance of representative soil sampling, soil testing, and Soil Health Cards was demonstrated to support balanced fertilizer application, reduce cultivation costs, and maintain soil fertility. Awareness was also created about the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme and institutional banking facilities for supporting agricultural and allied activities.

The programme commenced with a welcome address and an overview of ATMA initiatives, including training, demonstrations, and extension activities for disseminating agricultural technologies. The session concluded with a vote of thanks.

A total of 55 farmers, including 33 men and 22 women, participated in the programme, along with seven officials from the collaborating departments and institutions.

(Source: ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Goa)