ICAR-KVK Imphal West launches Khet Bachao Abhiyan
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 22 2026: The ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Imphal West launched the Khet Bachao Abhiyan (KBA) at Wangoi on October 22, 2026, as part of the nationwide campaign to promote sustainable, 'productive and climate-resilient agriculture.

The campaign focuses on creating awareness among fanners about balanced use of fertilizers based on soil testing, crop diversification through oilseeds, pulses and horticultural crops, efficient utilization of rice fallow areas, and proper crop residue management while discouraging burning through Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities.

It also aims to promote organic and biological products.

Natural Farming, water conservation, water recharge and harvesting and other sustainable practices.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandeep Deshmukh, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-KVK Imphal West, highlighted the importance of the Abhiyan and emphasized the need for farmers to adopt sustainable and resource-efficient practices.

He urged farmers to take advantage of Government schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Kisan Credit Card (KCC) for crop insurance and improved access to institutional credit.

Salam Gunamani, KVK Scientist - Plant Breeding and Genetics, explained the importance of crop diversification through oilseeds, pulses and horticultural crops for enhancing farm productivity, income and resilience and highlighted the significance of sustainable farming for longterm agricultural development.

Dr Kangabam Suraj Singh, KVK Scientist - Plant Protection, delivered a technical session on Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM).

He emphasized need-based plant protection measures and balanced and judicious use of pesticides to ensure effective management of pests and diseases while minimizing risks to human health, beneficial organisms and the environment A farmer-scientist interaction session was also held wherein farmers discussed issues related to soil fertility management, crop residue management, utilization of Soil Health Cards, water conservation and the "Per Drop More Crop" (PDMC) initiative.

KVK scientists responded to queries and provided technical guidance.

The programme concluded with distribution of Rabi vegetable seeds to farmers to encourage timely adoption of Rabi vegetable cultivation and crop diversification.

Farmers appreciated the efforts of ICAR-KVK Imphal West for organizing the programme at an appropriate time before the commencement of Rabi crop planting.

The programme successfully sensitized farmers on conserving agricultural resources, improving input-use efficiency and adopting sustainable farming technologies, and is expected to further strengthen awareness among farming communities in Imphal West district.

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