Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Doda, under the administrative control of SKUAST-Jammu, organised an awareness-cum-training programme under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan at Village Dhara, Block Bhaderwah, District Doda in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture Doda.
The programme was conducted under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-Jammu, Dr B N Tripathi and the guidance of the Director (Extension), SKUAST-Jammu, Dr Amrish Vaid. More than 50 farmers, farm women and rural youth participated in the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Scientist (Agriculture Extension), KVK Doda, Dr Arvinder Kumar, highlighted the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, a nationwide awareness and capacity-building campaign launched jointly by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. He emphasised the importance of balanced fertiliser application, scientific nutrient management, the judicious use of urea and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices to maintain soil health, enhance productivity and conserve natural resources.
Chief Scientist and Head, KVK Doda, Dr Amit Singh Charak, informed the participants that the campaign aims to strengthen farmer outreach through timely advisories, active Panchayat-level participation and the effective dissemination of scientific technologies and government welfare schemes among farming communities. He stressed the significance of natural farming, biodiversity conservation, environmental protection and reducing cultivation costs while ensuring food and nutritional security. Farmers were also apprised of various government-sponsored schemes including HADP, PM-KISAN, JKCIP and other agricultural development programmes.
During the programme, experts from KVK Doda and the Agriculture Department interacted with farmers and deliberated on soil health management, climate-resilient agriculture, natural farming practices, integrated nutrient management and sustainable crop production. Participants were sensitised about the adverse effects of indiscriminate fertiliser use and the importance of preserving soil fertility for long-term agricultural sustainability.
The programme concluded with an interactive session during which farmers raised queries related to crop production, soil health and government schemes. The experts addressed the concerns and provided practical recommendations. The participants appreciated the efforts of KVK Doda in organising such awareness programmes aimed at empowering farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural development in the district.
The event reflected the commitment of KVK Doda and the Department of Agriculture to strengthening the farming sector through knowledge dissemination, capacity building and the promotion of eco-friendly and sustainable agricultural practices.