New Delhi, May 22 (H.S.): The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), under its nationwide “Save Farms Campaign,” has sensitised more than 7.17 lakh farmers on the balanced use of fertilisers. The initiative is expected to help preserve soil health in the agricultural sector.

In a statement, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare said the “Save Farms Campaign” has achieved extensive outreach across the country through various platforms aimed at creating awareness among farmers and stakeholders regarding scientific nutrient management practices.

According to the ministry, a total of 12,979 awareness camps and seminars have so far been organised under the campaign, directly engaging around 7.17 lakh farmers. Additionally, 3,145 training programmes were conducted for capacity building, with participation from 1,11,509 individuals.

Practical knowledge was imparted through 7,928 field demonstrations focusing on green manure, bio-fertilisers and organic nutrient sources.

The ministry further stated that to ensure grassroots participation, 4,916 public representative conferences were organised with the active involvement of panchayats, sarpanches and district council members.

Farmer organisations were also integrated into the campaign. Through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Interest Groups (FIGs), a total of 8,383 farmer members were connected to the initiative.

For wider publicity, campaign materials including banners, posters and hoardings were displayed at 53,616 locations across the country. The message was further amplified through 1,144 media broadcasts, including 944 radio talks and 200 television and digital programmes.

Digital outreach through social media platforms extended the campaign’s reach to nearly 2.712 crore people.

The “Save Farms Campaign” aims to promote soil test-based nutrient management and reduce excessive dependence on chemical fertilisers, thereby protecting soil fertility and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar