Report on “Intensive Awareness Campaign for the Adoption of Science-Based Nutrient and Other Input Management”
Organizing Institute: ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Scientific Team: Team-5
Date of programme: 11.11.2026
State: Kerala
District: Kasargod
Village name: Padre, Enmakaje
Number of participants: 63 (M:38, F:25)
Interaction with the input dealer: No
Interaction with Panch / Sarpanch: No
Awareness programmes undertaken during visit: Khet Bachao Abhiyan
Any demonstration of green manuring: No
Biofertilizers: No
Any Local Learning/Observation Recorded: None
An awareness programme under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan was organized at Padre on 11 November, 2026 in collaboration with the Grama Panchayats and Krishi Bhavans of Bellur and Enmakaje Panchayats of Kasaragod district, Kerala to create awareness among farmers on the adoption of science-based nutrient management, judicious use of agricultural inputs, and sustainable farming practices in horticultural crops. The programme aimed to promote soil health conservation, improve input-use efficiency, and encourage environmentally sustainable agriculture.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Adwaithe M. V., Agricultural Officer, Krishi Bhavan, Bellur, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. Dr. Eradasappa E., Principal Scientist (Plant Breeding), ICAR-DCR, Puttur emphasized the importance of protecting agricultural lands through scientific farming practices, balanced nutrient application, and responsible use of agricultural inputs. He also highlighted major pests in cashew and their management practices.
An interactive session with farmers was conducted, during which participants shared their existing fertilizer and input management practices in horticultural crops. Farmers sought guidance regarding the appropriate selection, dosage, and timing of fertilizer application. A total of 63 farmers participated in the programme (Male: 38; Female: 25). The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Aswathy Chandrakumar, Scientist, (Agricultural Extension), ICAR-DCR, Puttur who expressed gratitude to the resource persons and participants for their active involvement in making the programme successful.
[Organisers: Dr. Eradasappa E., Dr. Siddanna Savadi and Dr Aswathy Chandrakumar].
Organizing Institute: ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Scientific Team: Team-3
Date of programme: 09.11.2026
State: Karnataka
District: Dakshina Kannada
Village name: Munduru
Number of participants: 25 (M:17, F:8)
Interaction with the input dealer: No
Interaction with Panch / Sarpanch: No
Awareness programmes undertaken during visit: Khet Bachao Abhiyan
Any demonstration of green manuring: No
Biofertilizers: No
Any Local Learning/Observation Recorded: None
An awareness programme under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan was organized at Munduru on 09 November, 2026 to create awareness among farmers on the adoption of science-based nutrient management, judicious use of agricultural inputs, and sustainable farming practices in horticultural crops. The programme aimed to promote soil health conservation, improve input-use efficiency, and encourage environmentally sustainable agriculture.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Mrs. Chaithra GK, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. Dr. T. N. Raviprasad, Principal Scientist, ICAR-DCR, Puttur emphasized the importance of protecting agricultural lands through scientific farming practices, balanced nutrient application, and responsible use of agricultural inputs. He also highlighted major pests in cashew and their management practices.
An interactive session with farmers was conducted, during which participants shared their existing fertilizer and input management practices in horticultural crops. Farmers sought guidance regarding the appropriate selection, dosage, and timing of fertilizer application. A total of 25 farmers participated in the programme (Male: 17; Female: 08). The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Aswathy Chandrakumar, Scientist, (Agricultural Extension), ICAR-DCR, Puttur who expressed gratitude to the resource persons and participants for their active involvement in making the programme successful.
[Organisers: Dr TN Raviprasad, Dr. Thondaiman V. and Dr Aswathy Chandrakumar].
Date: 06-11-2026
Team Leader: Dr. Vanitha K., Pr. Scientist
Members: Dr. Babli Mog., Sr. Scientist
Dr. Manjunatha K., Scientist
Mr. Rahul Yadhav, Technician (T-I)
As part of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, under the slogan “Save the Soil, Save Farming, Save Farmers,” an awareness programme was organized at Kombaru Grama Panchayath, Kadaba Taluk, Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture. The programme aimed to create awareness among progressive farmers, members of self-help groups, and other stakeholders about soil health, sustainable agricultural practices, and improved cashew production technologies. A total of 52 farmers, comprising 10 men and 42 women, participated in the programme. The programme commenced with an address by Dr. Chaluvarangappa, Assistant Director of Agriculture, who briefed the participants on the objectives and significance of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. He highlighted the importance of maintaining soil health and adopting appropriate soil management practices. He also provided information on various Central and State Government schemes and programmes available to support farmers. Dr. Manjunatha K. delivered a technical session on cashew cultivation, covering the introduction of improved cashew varieties, soil suitability, and appropriate site selection for successful establishment of cashew plantations. He also explained the recommended crop management practices and highlighted the potential of cashew apple utilization through value addition. Various value-added products, including cashew apple juice, jam, jelly, cookies, jaggery, rusk, and fruit bars, were introduced, emphasizing the opportunities for developing marketable products, diversifying farm-based enterprises, and generating additional income for farmers. Dr. Vanitha K. highlighted the importance of soil health management, soil testing, and the role of organic carbon in maintaining soil fertility and productivity. She also discussed the major pests and diseases affecting cashew and emphasized the adoption of effective and timely management practices to minimize crop losses. The programme concluded with an interactive session during which farmers actively participated, raised queries, and exchanged their experiences and views with the resource persons. Several participants expressed keen interest in cashew apple value addition and the development of various processed products. The programme provided a valuable platform for disseminating technical knowledge and creating awareness about soil conservation, sustainable cashew cultivation, and income-generating opportunities, thereby contributing to improved agricultural practices and enhanced farmers’ livelihoods.
Date: 06-11-2026
Team Leader: Dr. Vanitha K., Pr. Scientist
Members: Dr. Babli Mog., Sr. Scientist
Dr. Manjunatha K., Scientist
Mr. Rahul Yadhav, Technician (T-I)
As part of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, under the slogan “Save the Soil, Save Farming, Save Farmers,” an awareness programme was organized at Kombaru Grama Panchayath, Kadaba Taluk, Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture. The programme aimed to create awareness among progressive farmers, members of self-help groups, and other stakeholders about soil health, sustainable agricultural practices, and improved cashew production technologies. A total of 52 farmers, comprising 10 men and 42 women, participated in the programme. The programme commenced with an address by Dr. Chaluvarangappa, Assistant Director of Agriculture, who briefed the participants on the objectives and significance of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. He highlighted the importance of maintaining soil health and adopting appropriate soil management practices. He also provided information on various Central and State Government schemes and programmes available to support farmers. Dr. Manjunatha K. delivered a technical session on cashew cultivation, covering the introduction of improved cashew varieties, soil suitability, and appropriate site selection for successful establishment of cashew plantations. He also explained the recommended crop management practices and highlighted the potential of cashew apple utilization through value addition. Various value-added products, including cashew apple juice, jam, jelly, cookies, jaggery, rusk, and fruit bars, were introduced, emphasizing the opportunities for developing marketable products, diversifying farm-based enterprises, and generating additional income for farmers. Dr. Vanitha K. highlighted the importance of soil health management, soil testing, and the role of organic carbon in maintaining soil fertility and productivity. She also discussed the major pests and diseases affecting cashew and emphasized the adoption of effective and timely management practices to minimize crop losses. The programme concluded with an interactive session during which farmers actively participated, raised queries, and exchanged their experiences and views with the resource persons. Several participants expressed keen interest in cashew apple value addition and the development of various processed products. The programme provided a valuable platform for disseminating technical knowledge and creating awareness about soil conservation, sustainable cashew cultivation, and income-generating opportunities, thereby contributing to improved agricultural practices and enhanced farmers’ livelihoods.
Awareness Campaign under Khet Bachao Abhiyan at Narimogaru Village, Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka
Organizing Institute: ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Scientific Team:
Dr. Balasubramanian D, Principal Scientist, ICAR-DCR,
Dr. Bhagya H P, Senior Scientist, ICAR-DCR,
Dr. Veena G L, Senior Scientist, ICAR-DCR,
Mr. Lalan Kumar, Technician, ICAR-DCR,
Date of the Programme: 05.11.2026
State: Karnataka
District: Dakshina Kannada
Village Name: Narimogaru (Mukve)
Number of Participants: 33 (Male 14 and Female- 19)
Interaction with Input dealer: No
Interaction with Panch/Sarpanch: No
Biofertilizers: Yes
Demonstration: Cashew apple Utilization
Awareness programmes undertaken during visit:
- Awareness on balanced fertilizer use
- Organic farming for horticultural crops
- Awareness on importance of Value addition and generation of wealth from waste
An awareness campaign under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan Rabi 2026, on science-based Nutrient and input Management was successfully conducted at Narimogaru (Mukve) Village in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka on 05.11.2026, to sensitize farmers about the importance of soil health management and sustainable agricultural practices. Programme and demonstration were organized for the farmers.
Dr. Veena G L., Senior Scientist, ICAR-DCR, Puttur emphasized the importance and objectives of the campaign. She also highlighted the importance of value addition in cashew apple and generation of wealth from agricultural waste. Participants were educated on the importance of recycling farm biomass by using it as mulch to conserve soil moisture, improve soil health, add organic matter, and promote sustainable nutrient cycling. Dr Bhagya H P., Senior Scientist, briefed about protecting agricultural lands through scientific farming practices, balanced nutrient application, and responsible use of agricultural inputs. Further Dr. Balasubramanian D (Principal Scientist) briefed the gathering about the programme goals and need of adopting science based nutrient management and scope of value addition in cashew.
The participating farmers were sensitized to the benefits of using organic inputs such as farmyard manure, green manure, vermicompost, biofertilizers, mulching materials, and other organic amendments. The participants were guided to practice the soil test-based nutrition application for crops for effective results.
A total of 33 participants attended the programme (Male: 14; Female: 19),
Organizing Institute: ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Scientific Team: Team-5
Date of programme: 04.11.2026
State: Karnataka
District: Dakshina Kannada
Village name: Kudupadavu, Kepu Village
Number of participants: 28 (M:22, F: 06)
Interaction with the input dealer: No
Interaction with Panch / Sarpanch: No
Awareness programmes undertaken during visit: Khet Bachao Abhiyan
Any demonstration of green manuring: No
Biofertilizers: No
Any Local Learning/Observation Recorded: Few farmers practice traditional cow dung manure
An awareness programme under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan was organised at Kudupadavu, Kepu Village, on 04 November 2026 to sensitise farmers on science-based nutrient management, judicious use of agricultural inputs and sustainable farming practices in horticultural crops. The programme aimed to promote soil health conservation, enhance input-use efficiency and encourage environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Prasad Shetty, Managing Director, Bharat Agri Development FPO, Vittal, who welcomed the participants and outlined the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan.
Dr. Eradasappa E., Principal Scientist (Plant Breeding), ICAR-DCR, Puttur, delivered a technical session on scientific cultivation practices in cashew. He emphasised the importance of adopting appropriate planting methods, nutrient management, canopy management, pest and disease management, and orchard maintenance to enhance cashew productivity and ensure sustainable cultivation. Dr. Siddanna Savadi, Senior Scientist (Plant Biochemistry), ICAR-DCR, Puttur, highlighted the significance of cashew cultivation in improving the livelihoods of tribal farmers. He stressed the importance of adopting scientific agricultural practices and effectively utilising institutional support for sustainable agricultural development. Dr. Jyoti Nishad highlighted the importance of maintaining soil fertility and discussed the potential for value addition to cashew apple and the opportunities for income generation through its utilisation.
An interactive session was conducted with farmers, during which participants shared their existing fertiliser and agricultural input management practices in horticultural crops. Farmers sought clarification and guidance on the appropriate selection, dosage and timing of fertiliser application.
A total of 28 farmers (22 male and 6 female) participated in the programme. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Prasad Shetty, who expressed gratitude to the resource persons and participants for their active involvement and contribution to the successful conduct of the programme.
[Organizers: Dr Eradasappa E., Dr. Siddanna Savadi and Dr Jyoti Nishad].
Organizing Institute: ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Scientific Team: Team-3
Date of programme: 02.11.2026
Venue: Paivalike, Kasargod, Kerala
Number of participants: 33 (M:26, F: 07)
Interaction with the input dealer: No
Interaction with Panch / Sarpanch: No
Awareness programmes undertaken during visit: Khet Bachao Abhiyan
Any demonstration of green manuring: No
Biofertilizers: No
Any Local Learning/Observation Recorded: Few farmers practice application of cow dung manure
An awareness programme under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan was organized at Paivalike on 02 November, 2026 to create awareness among farmers on the adoption of science-based nutrient management, judicious use of agricultural inputs, and sustainable farming practices in horticultural crops. The programme aimed to promote soil health conservation, improve input-use efficiency, and encourage environmentally sustainable agriculture.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Agriculture Officer, Mrs. Lekshmi, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. Dr. T. N. Raviprasad, Principal Scientist, ICAR-DCR, Puttur emphasized the importance of protecting agricultural lands through scientific farming practices, balanced nutrient application, and responsible use of agricultural inputs. He also highlighted major pests in cashew and their management practices.
Thereafter, Dr. Rajashekara H. and Dr. Jyoti Nishad addressed the gathering and explained the importance of science-based nutrient and input management for enhancing crop productivity, maintaining soil fertility, and ensuring long-term sustainability of farming systems. They also explained about the value addition opportunity in cashew and scope of revenue generation from cashew apples.
An interactive session with farmers was conducted, during which participants shared their existing fertilizer and input management practices in horticultural crops. Farmers sought guidance regarding the appropriate selection, dosage, and timing of fertilizer application. A total of 33 farmers participated in the programme (Male: 26; Female: 07). The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Mrs. Lekshmi, who expressed gratitude to the resource persons and participants for their active involvement in making the programme successful.
[Organisers: Dr TN Raviprasad, Dr. Rajashekara H. and Dr Jyoti Nishad].
Organizing Institute: ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Scientific Team: Team-4
Date of programme: 30.10.2026
Venue: Sullia, Sullia Taluk, Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka
Number of participants: 30 (M:23, F:7)
Interaction with the input dealer: No
Interaction with Panch/Sarpanch: No
Awareness programmes undertaken during visit: Balanced application of nutrition and awareness on organic fertilizers
Any demonstration of green manuring: No
Biofertilizers: Yes
An intensive awareness programme on “Adoption of Science-Based Nutrient and Other Input Management” was successfully conducted at Sullya, Sullya Taluk, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka-574239, on 30-10-2026. The programme was organised with the objective of creating awareness among farmers regarding the importance of balanced nutrient management, scientific input usage, and sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in horticultural crops.
The programme commenced with a warm welcome by Dr. Manjesh, Scientist (SPM&AP), who welcomed all the participants and highlighted the objectives and significance of the campaign. Further, Dr. Mohana G.S. (Principal Scientist, G&C) briefed the gathering about the programme goals and the need for adopting scientific approaches in nutrient and input management for improving production and soil health. Dr. Manjesh has demonstrated the application of nutrients to the cashew plants.
In the interactive session, farmers discussed about time of fertilizer application, organic sources to meet out nutrient requirement, pest and disease control methods. The experts clarified farmers’ queries and emphasised the importance of judicious application of fertilisers. Furthermore, the participants were sensitized about preparation, benefits and field application of organic manures. The participants were guided to practice the soil test-based nutrition application for crops for effective results.
A total of 30 participants attended the programme (Male: 23; Female: 7), and the programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. V. Thondaiman, Scientist (SPM&AP), who expressed gratitude to the resource persons, participants, and organisers for their cooperation and active participation in the successful conduct of the programme.
[Organisers: Drs. Mohana, G.S., V. Thondaiman and Manjesh G.N].
Organizing Institute: ICAR-Directorate of Cashew Research, Puttur, Karnataka
Scientific Team: Dr. Balasubramanian D, Principal Scientist, ICAR-DCR, Puttur, Karnataka
Dr. Bhagya H P, Senior Scientist, ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Dr. Veena G L, Senior Scientist, ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Mr. Lalan Kumar, Technician, ICAR-DCR, Puttur
Date of programme: 28.10.2026
State: Karnataka
District: Dakshina Kannada
Village name: Sampaje
Number of participants:25 (Male -16 Femele-9)
An awareness campaign under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan was successfully conducted at Sampaje Village in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka on 28.06.2026, to sensitize farmers about the importance of soil health management and sustainable agricultural practices.
During the campaign, a field demonstration on pruning and training of young cashew plantations, with the utilization of pruned biomass as mulch, was conducted. Farmers were educated on the importance of recycling farm biomass by using it as mulch to conserve soil moisture, improve soil health, add organic matter, and promote sustainable nutrient cycling. The significance of soil as a vital natural resource for sustaining agricultural productivity and maintaining environmental sustainability was also emphasized.
The participating farmers were sensitized to the benefits of using organic inputs such as farmyard manure, green manure, vermicompost, compost, biofertilizers, mulching materials, and other organic amendments. These practices help improve soil fertility, enhance beneficial microbial activity, conserve soil moisture, and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers.
The farmers appreciated the awareness campaign and found the information and field demonstrations practical and beneficial for improving farm productivity and soil health. The interactive nature of the programme facilitated effective knowledge exchange and strengthened farmers’ understanding of sustainable soil management and horticultural practices in cashew cultivation.
Team – 1
Date: 26-10-2026
Team Leader: Dr. Vanitha K., Pr. Scientist
Members: Dr. Babli Mog., Sr. Scientist
Dr. Manjunatha K., Scientist
As part of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, under the slogan “Save the Soil, Save Farming, Save Farmers,” an awareness programme was organized at Vittal, Karnataka, for progressive farmers, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote soil health, sustainable agriculture, and improved cashew production practices. The programme was attended by 125 farmers, comprising 106 male and 19 female participants. The programme commenced with Dr. Vanitha K, who briefed the participants on the objectives and significance of the initiative. She provided an overview of cashew cultivation, introduced various cashew varieties, and highlighted the importance of soil health, soil suitability, and appropriate site selection for successful cashew cultivation. She also discussed the major pests and diseases affecting cashew and emphasized the need for effective management practices. Subsequently, Dr. Babli Mog explained the importance of Cashew Special, a micronutrient formulation developed specifically for cashew, to improve crop nutrition and enhance productivity. She elaborated on balanced nutrient management and the role of micronutrients in promoting healthy growth and increasing yield. Dr. Manjunatha K then highlighted the potential of cashew apple utilization through value addition and processing to develop marketable products and generate additional income for farmers. The programme concluded with an interactive session in which farmers actively participated, raised queries, and exchanged views. Several participants expressed keen interest in cashew apple value addition, reflecting the programme’s potential to encourage sustainable farming practices and improve farmers’ livelihoods.
Report on Khet Bachao Abhiyan (23.10.2026) Demonstration of Canopy Management
As part of the nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan – Rabi 2026, a training cum demonstration programme on canopy management in cashew trees was organised by ICAR–Directorate of Cashew Research (ICAR-DCR), Puttur, at Gallimukha on 23 October 2026. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Cashew Progeny Orchard, Adhur with an aim to create awareness among the farm staff about the importance of scientific canopy management.
Dr. Aswathy Chandrakumar, Scientist (Agricultural Extension), ICAR-DCR, Puttur, addressed the gathering and emphasised the importance of scientific agricultural practices in cashew cultivation. Dr. Bhagya H. P., Senior Scientist (SPM & AP), ICAR-DCR, Puttur, handled a technical session on scientific techniques for effective canopy management in cashew orchards. She highlighted the importance of proper pruning, maintaining an appropriate tree canopy structure, improving sunlight penetration and ensuring better air circulation within the canopy.
This was followed by a demonstration on canopy management during which the pruning technique was demonstrated to the participants. A total of 50 farm staff participated in the programme.
Report on Khet Bachao Abhiyan (22.10.2026)
Awareness programme at Bettampady village
As part of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan – Rabi 2026, an awareness programme was conducted at Bettampady village by ICAR–Directorate of Cashew Research (ICAR-DCR), Puttur on 22nd October 2026. The programme focused on the key objectives of the campaign, with particular emphasis on scientific cashew orchard management.
Dr. Aswathy Chandrakumar, Scientist (Agricultural Extension), interacted with the farmers and highlighted the importance of maintaining cashew trees through appropriate agronomic practices, improving soil health and ensuring the judicious use of fertilizers based on soil testing. The importance of adopting sustainable and scientific practices for maintaining healthy cashew orchards and improving productivity was emphasised. During the interaction, farmers raised queries regarding pest attacks in cashew and the proper methods of fertilizer application. Their queries were addressed through scientific guidance on pest management and appropriate fertilizer application practices.
A total of 30 farmers participated in the programme. The interactive session provided an opportunity for farmers to clarify their doubts and aimed to enhance farmers’ awareness and encourage the adoption of sustainable practices in cashew cultivation
Report on Khet Bachao Abhiyan (22.10.2026)
Live Streaming of Khet Bachao Abhiyan Launch
The nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan – Rabi 2026 was launched from Karnal, Haryana, in accordance with the instructions of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. In connection with the launch of the campaign, an online meeting was conducted by ICT-ICAR through Zoom on 22nd October 2026. The campaign activities are scheduled to be conducted from 22nd October 2026 to 30th November 2026. The campaign focuses on promoting sustainable agricultural practices, improving soil health and encouraging the judicious use of fertilizers and other agricultural inputs based on soil testing.
Following the meeting, a discussion was held among the scientists of ICAR-DCR, Puttur, regarding team formation and strategies for achieving the targets assigned under the campaign. Dr. Aswathy Chandrakumar, Nodal Officer of the campaign, addressed the gathering and briefed the participants on the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan and the planned activities. She explained the modalities for implementing the campaign and outlined the responsibilities of each team to ensure the effective and timely execution of the assigned activities.
As part of the campaign, scientists are required to visit villages three days per week to conduct farmer training programmes, practical demonstrations and provide technical guidance on scientific cashew cultivation, soil health management, balanced fertilizer application and pest and disease management. Each team is responsible for achieving its assigned targets, documenting village visits and farmer participation, and ensuring the timely implementation of campaign activities to promote sustainable cashew cultivation.
A total of 40 members, comprising scientists, technical staff and non-technical staff of ICAR–Directorate of Cashew Research (ICAR-DCR), Puttur, attended the meeting. The meeting emphasised coordinated teamwork and systematic implementation of the planned activities to achieve the campaign objectives within the stipulated period.
