Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shopian, in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Shopian today organized one-day awareness programme under the month-long national flagship campaign “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” at the Auditorium Hall of Government Degree College, Shopian.
Month-long national flagship programme “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” was launched on June 1, 2026 and will continue until June 30, 2026, with the objective of promoting soil conservation, sustainable agriculture, and improved farmer awareness across the district.
The programme was presided over by Agri-Chemist, Ravinder Kumar Tripathi and attended by officers from the Agriculture Department, allied departments, KVK Shopian, and a large number of farmers from across the district.
Addressing the gathering, Ravinder Kumar Tripathi highlighted the significance of the month-long campaign and stated that the Agriculture Department is conducting awareness programmes throughout the district to encourage sustainable farming practices and strengthen soil health management. He emphasized the need for the judicious use of pesticides and fertilizers to maintain ecological balance, enhance soil fertility, and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.
During the programme, experts provided detailed guidance on the scientific and balanced use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, stressing the importance of minimizing excessive chemical applications to protect public health and the environment.
Farmers were encouraged to adopt eco-friendly and soil-friendly agricultural practices that contribute to sustainable crop production and environmental conservation.
The awareness session also focused on the promotion of integrated nutrient management, responsible pesticide usage, soil health improvement, and conservation-oriented farming practices.
Experts explained that sustainable agricultural practices help improve soil structure, enhance nutrient availability, reduce environmental pollution, and ensure better productivity over the long term.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers and other agricultural stakeholders, who actively interacted with experts and expressed their commitment to adopting sustainable and soil-friendly farming practices in their fields.
Participants pledged to disseminate awareness regarding soil health management and responsible input use among fellow farmers for the benefit of future generations.
Among others present on the occasion were Prof. Zaffar Afroz Badri, Head, KVK Shopian; Rafiq Ahmad, Chief Agriculture Officer, Munner Ahmad, Chief Horticulture Officer; Gh. Mohiuddin, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer; and officers and officials from various line departments.