Farmer-scientist interactions, field camps and soil health campaigns launched across multiple states to promote balanced fertiliser use and eco-friendly agriculture practices

Ahead of the Kharif 2026 sowing season, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research has intensified a nationwide awareness campaign promoting the balanced use of fertilisers, soil health management and sustainable farming practices.

Through its extensive network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and research institutes, ICAR has been conducting farmer outreach programmes, field demonstrations, awareness camps and training sessions across several states over the past month. The campaign is aligned with the Government of India’s broader vision of encouraging sustainable agriculture, reducing excessive chemical fertiliser use and improving long-term soil productivity.

The latest round of programmes held during May 18–19, 2026, focused on Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), bio-fertilisers, green manuring, scientific use of farmyard manure (FYM), vermicomposting and soil test-based nutrient application.

Key Highlights

• ICAR launches nationwide awareness drive on balanced fertiliser use ahead of Kharif 2026
• KVKs and ICAR institutes conduct farmer outreach programmes across multiple states
• Focus on soil test-based nutrient management and sustainable agriculture
• Awareness campaigns held in Punjab, West Bengal, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand
• Programmes promote green manuring, bio-fertilisers and precision agriculture
• Farmer-scientist interactions and school awareness camps organised
• Campaign aims to improve soil health, reduce input costs and enhance nutrient efficiency

Awareness Campaigns Conducted Across States

Punjab Focuses on Soil Testing Awareness

KVK Fazilka, Abohar, in Punjab organised a special awareness camp for school students highlighting the importance of balanced fertiliser use and soil testing. The programme carried the message: “संतुलित उर्वरक अपनाएँ, मिट्टी की उर्वरा शक्ति बचाएँ।”

West Bengal Conducts Multiple Farmer Training Sessions

In West Bengal, KVK Burdwan organised awareness camps at Bud Bud and Bhasapur villages focusing on sustainable nutrient management and judicious fertiliser application.

RAKVK Nimpith, South 24 Parganas, conducted a specialised training programme on soil test-based nutrient management for different crops, while Kalimpong KVK organised a farmer awareness initiative in Sangsey village with participation from local Panchayat representatives.

Additionally, DDKVK Dakshin Dinajpur organised a Kharif paddy training programme on scientific seed and seedbed treatment practices to improve crop productivity and sustainability.

Madhya Pradesh Pushes Precision Agriculture and Soybean Awareness

In Madhya Pradesh, ICAR-Directorate of Weed Research organised a farmer-scientist interaction programme in Jabalpur district focusing on balanced fertiliser usage.

Simultaneously, ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil Science conducted campaigns in Sehore district promoting green manuring, bio-fertilisers and precision agriculture techniques for Kharif 2026.

Under the “Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav” initiative, awareness sessions on balanced fertiliser use in soybean cultivation were also organised in Dhar district.

Rajasthan, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh Join Outreach Drive

ICAR-Indian Institute of Rapeseed-Mustard Research organised a Kisan Sangoshthi in Rajasthan focusing on soil health enhancement, natural farming and organic agriculture practices.

In Telangana, ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research conducted an awareness programme in Mahboobnagar district, while Uttar Pradesh hosted a “Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav” outreach programme in Lucknow district promoting balanced fertiliser use.

Uttarakhand Promotes Organic Fertiliser Use

ICAR-Central Institute of Coldwater Fisheries Research organised a field day in Nainital district demonstrating the use of organic fertilisers and sustainable nutrient practices.

Why Balanced Fertiliser Use Matters

Experts have increasingly stressed the need for balanced fertiliser application in Indian agriculture due to rising concerns around soil degradation, declining nutrient efficiency and escalating input costs.

The ICAR campaign encourages farmers to adopt integrated nutrient management systems that combine organic inputs, crop residue recycling, livestock-based nutrients and scientific fertiliser application based on soil health data.

According to officials, the initiative aims to:

• Improve long-term soil fertility
• Reduce excessive chemical fertiliser dependency
• Enhance crop productivity sustainably
• Lower cultivation costs for farmers
• Improve nutrient use efficiency
• Strengthen food security

Impact on Food, Hospitality & Tourism Sectors

The nationwide push towards sustainable farming practices could have long-term implications for India’s food supply chain, hospitality industry and agri-tourism ecosystem.

Better Quality Produce for Hotels and Restaurants

Balanced nutrient management and healthier soil systems can improve crop quality, consistency and traceability — factors increasingly important for hotels, restaurants, luxury resorts and premium foodservice operators sourcing fresh produce.

Growth of Organic and Farm-to-Table Dining

The emphasis on bio-fertilisers, green manuring and organic farming aligns with rising consumer demand for clean-label and sustainably grown food in hospitality and tourism markets. Farm-to-table dining concepts and wellness-focused hospitality brands may particularly benefit.

Strengthening Rural & Agri Tourism

Awareness programmes promoting sustainable farming can also support rural tourism and agri-experience destinations, where tourists increasingly seek authentic farm-based experiences linked to organic cultivation and local food traditions.

Sustainable Agriculture Supports Culinary Tourism

Improved soil health and sustainable cultivation practices can help preserve regional crop diversity and indigenous produce, strengthening India’s culinary tourism narrative and regional gastronomy experiences.

The ongoing ICAR-led campaign is expected to continue through the Kharif 2026 preparation period as the government intensifies efforts to promote climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural practices across the country.