Srinagar :Kendra (KVK) Srinagar, SKUAST-K, on Monday launched the nationwide “KHET BACHAO ABHIYAN” campaign with the theme “Healthy Soil – Healthy Crop – Prosperous Farmer” through an awareness-cum-capacity building programme held at Aspire World School, Humhama.
The campaign, initiated under the nationwide drive launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in collaboration with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), aims to improve soil health, minimize the indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers, and promote sustainable agricultural practices through green manuring, integrated nutrient management, and regenerative agriculture.
Recognizing the critical role of educators in shaping public awareness and influencing future generations, KVK Srinagar commenced the campaign by engaging teachers and students from educational institutions in and around Humhama in collaboration with Aspire World School. The programme was designed to raise awareness about soil conservation and sustainable farming practices to ensure long-term food and nutritional security.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Shamim A. Simnani, Head, KVK Srinagar, emphasized that healthy soil is the foundation of sustainable agriculture and a key determinant of agricultural productivity, environmental quality, and farmers’ livelihoods.
He highlighted the growing concerns associated with excessive and unscientific use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, stressing the need for regenerative agriculture and scientific soil management practices. Prof. Simnani said that improving soil health is essential for enhancing nutrient-use efficiency, increasing farm resilience, conserving natural resources, and ensuring sustainable food production for future generations.
He called upon educational institutions, farming communities, extension agencies, and other stakeholders to actively participate in soil conservation and restoration efforts and support initiatives aimed at promoting environmentally sustainable agriculture.
During the programme, scientists from KVK Srinagar delivered expert sessions on soil test-based balanced fertilizer application, integrated nutrient management, conservation of natural resources, and adoption of scientific and sustainable natural farming practices. Participants were also sensitized about the importance of Soil Health Cards, organic amendments, biofertilizers, and scientific crop management techniques in maintaining soil fertility and productivity.
The experts emphasized that adopting balanced nutrient management practices and reducing dependency on chemical inputs can significantly improve soil quality while ensuring higher productivity and profitability for farmers.
The programme witnessed active participation from students, teaching and non-teaching staff of Aspire World School, along with scientists and technical staff of KVK Srinagar. Participants engaged in interactive discussions and expressed their commitment towards promoting awareness about soil health and sustainable agriculture within their communities.
The campaign forms part of a larger national effort to safeguard agricultural lands, improve soil fertility, and encourage climate-resilient farming systems, ultimately contributing to the vision of a prosperous farming community and sustainable agricultural development.
