ICAR Manipur Centre trains farmers on soil health under Khet Bachao Abhiyan
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 09 2026: The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, Lamphelpat, organised an awareness-cum-training programme on Khet Bachao Abhiyan (KBA) at Maklang Makha Leikai, Haorang Sabal Block, Imphal West, on Tuesday.

A total of 76 farmers, including 62 women, took part in the programme aimed at promoting soil conservation and sustainable agricultural practices.

During the technical sessions, experts sensitised farmers on the need to maintain healthy soils for sustainable crop production, higher farm income, and longterm agricultural viability.

Farmers were briefed on balanced fertiliser use based on soil test results, integrated nutrient management, and crop planning methods such as crop rotation, legumebased systems, and intercropping to cut fertiliser dependence.

Special focus was placed on eco-friendly alternatives including green manuring, farmyard manure, vermicompost, compost, biofertilizers, and Azolla cultivation in rice fields to improve soil fertility and reduce chemical inputs.

Participants were also encouraged to adopt biopesticides and Integrated Pest Management practices for safe pest control while conserving beneficial organisms and soil health.

The sessions were led by Dr A Ratankumar Singh, Senior Scientist (Pathology), Dr N Anando Singh, Senior Scientist (Agronomy), and Dr Konsam Sarika, Scientist (Genetics and Plant Breeding) .

The experts said balanced fertilisation, organic sources, and biopesticides can boost productivity, lower costs, and build climate-resilient farming.

The programme ended with an interactive discussion where farmers shared experiences and received scientific recommendations.

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