As part of the nationwide "Khet Bachao Abhiyan" (Save the Farm Campaign) under the Awareness Programme on Balanced Use of Fertilizers (BUF), Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Ranga Reddy District, ICAR–CRIDA, Hyderabad, organized a farmer awareness programme on 01 June 2026 at Arutla Village, Ranga Reddy District.
The programme marked the launch of the nationwide campaign aimed at promoting balanced fertilizer use, improving soil health, enhancing nutrient-use efficiency and ensuring sustainable agricultural production.
The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Chandrakant M.H., Head, KVK Ranga Reddy, who emphasized the importance of soil test-based fertilizer application, Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), and eco-friendly farming practices for maintaining long-term soil fertility and enhancing crop productivity.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. G. Srikrishna, SMS (Horticulture) and Nodal Officer, Khet Bachao Abhiyan, who explained the objectives of the campaign and encouraged farmers to adopt natural farming practices in vegetable and horticultural crops for producing safe and quality food while improving soil health.
KVK scientists delivered technical lectures on various aspects of sustainable agriculture: Dr. D. Sudheer, SMS (Veterinary Science), highlighted the importance of integrated crop–livestock farming systems and effective utilization of livestock resources for sustainable agriculture.
Dr. S. Vijayakumar, SMS (Agricultural Engineering), explained the importance of farm mechanization, water management, and micro-irrigation technologies. He advised farmers to avoid water-intensive crops such as paddy and instead adopt short-duration, drought-tolerant crop varieties to minimize climate-related risks.
Dr. Gautam Veer Chauhan, SMS (Agronomy), stressed the importance of balanced fertilizer use, organic manures, biofertilizers, and micronutrients for sustaining soil health. He encouraged farmers to adopt intercropping systems, green manuring crops
Dr. Dilip S., SMS (Agricultural Extension), briefed farmers on various government schemes, including Micro Irrigation, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), and Seed Hub programmes in pulse crops, and encouraged them to avail themselves of these benefits.
The programme was also graced by Mr. Nagesh, Mandal Horticulture Extension Officer, who interacted with farmers and shared valuable information on sustainable horticulture, dairy-based farming systems, and integrated farming practices.
Progressive farmers Mr. Pratap Reddy and Mr. Venkat Reddy shared their experiences in adopting improved agricultural technologies and sustainable farming practices. Women farmers also actively participated in the programme and expressed their views on the importance of balanced nutrient management and soil health conservation.
A total of 44 farmers (40 men and 4 women) participated in the awareness programme.
