Report on Khet Bachao Abhiyan (26.10.2026)
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.
