The ICAR–Directorate of Cashew Research (ICAR–DCR), Puttur celebrated World Soil Day on 5th December 2025 with great enthusiasm and participation. This year’s global theme, “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities,” emphasized the crucial role of soil in building sustainable, livable, and resilient urban environments. The event highlighted that the true strength of a city lies beneath the ground in its soils.
The programme commenced at with the rendition of Vandhe Mataram, followed by the ICAR song, setting a patriotic and inspiring tone for the event. A video clip on World Soil Day was presented to the audience to create awareness on the importance of soil conservation and global initiatives linked to soil health. Dr. M.S. Venkatesh, Principal Scientist (Soil Science), ICAR–DCR, welcome the gathering and introduced the Chief Guest, Dr. C. A. Shrinivasa Murthy, Former Professor & Head (Soil Science), UAS GKVK, Bengaluru, and Former Director of Research, CAU Imphal.
The formal inauguration of the programme was marked by the symbolic watering of the cashew plant by dignitaries, signifying the institution’s commitment towards sustainable agricultural practices, soil care, and ecological balance. This was followed by the Chief Guest’s special lecture on “Importance and Management of Soils for Successful Horticultural Enterprises.” Dr. Murthy emphasized various scientific and practical approaches for improving soil fertility and enhancing horticultural crop productivity. He highlighted soil organic matter management, composting, need-based fertilizer application, integrated nutrient management, and soil biodiversity as key elements in achieving long-term soil health.
A set of extension publications was released on the occasion to support farmers with updated technical knowledge. Subsequently, soil health cards were distributed to farmers from Sullia and Puttur taluks, enabling them to understand the nutrient status of their fields and plan crop management more effectively.
In his Presidential Address, Dr. J. Dinakara Adiga, Director, ICAR–DCR, Puttur, stressed the need for protecting soil resources to ensure higher crop yields, long-term productivity, and sustainability. He also highlighted practical methods to enrich soil, including composting, mulching, and promoting microflora. As part of the programme, a demonstration on soil and plant sampling techniques and soil testing procedures was conducted for farmers and self-help group (SHG) members from Sampaje village, Sullia taluk. This session aimed to create hands-on awareness on correct sampling techniques that influence the accuracy of soil test results.
A special interactive session with farmers was held where scientists of ICAR–DCR addressed field-level challenges, clarified doubts, and shared best management practices for improving soil fertility in cashew and other horticultural crops. A brief felicitation ceremony was organized to honor the Chief Guest for his valuable contribution. The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Veena G. L., Senior Scientist (SPM & AP), followed by the National Anthem. A total of 85 participants, including farmers, SHG members, women participants, and ICAR–DCR staff, attended the programme. The event successfully enhanced awareness on soil health, conservation practices, and sustainable horticultural development, aligning with the global mandate of protecting soil for a better future.
