Soil Health Campaign under Bhumi Suposhan Programme and Intensive Campaign on Balanced Fertilizer Use

Healthy soil is the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, ensuring higher productivity, efficient resource use and long-term food security. To promote scientific soil and nutrient management practices among farmers, DDS- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, organized a comprehensive Soil Health Campaign under the Bhumi Suposhan Programme and the Intensive Campaign on Balanced Fertilizer Use across Sangareddy district.

The campaign was conducted during April in 27 villages across three mandals through village-level meetings, awareness programmes, Kisan Goshtis, practical demonstrations and field interactions. The initiative reached 1,535 farmers, including 721 men and 814 women, creating widespread awareness on the importance of maintaining soil health for sustainable crop production.

During the campaign, Mr. V. Ramesh, SMS (Agronomy) and Mr. E. Swamy, PA (Soil Lab) conducted interactive technical sessions on scientific soil and nutrient management. Farmers received practical guidance on soil testing, scientific methods of soil sample collection, interpretation of Soil Health Cards, balanced fertilizer application and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) practices for improving crop productivity while conserving soil resources.

A major focus of the campaign was on promoting sustainable nutrient management practices. Farmers were encouraged to use bio fertilizers, organic manures, compost, and recycled farm residues to enhance soil fertility and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers. Awareness was also created on crop rotation, intercropping systems, and the use of cotton shredders for in-situ crop residue management, which helps improve soil organic matter, conserve moisture and reduce pest incidence.

The programme also emphasized the importance of identifying nutrient deficiency symptoms in crops and understanding the role of essential macro and micronutrients in plant growth. Farmers were trained on efficient fertilizer application techniques to improve nutrient use efficiency, reduce production costs and minimize nutrient losses to the environment.

As an important follow-up activity, soil samples were collected from all 27 villages for laboratory analysis. Based on the test results, site-specific fertilizer recommendations are being provided to farmers, enabling them to adopt precise nutrient management practices suited to their individual fields.

The campaign resulted in a significant increase in farmers awareness of soil test-based fertilizer application and sustainable soil management. Many participants expressed interest in adopting balanced fertilizer use, organic nutrient sources, and integrated nutrient management practices to improve soil fertility and enhance crop productivity while protecting natural resources.

Through initiatives such as the Bhumi Suposhan Programme, DDS-KVK continues to empower farming communities with scientific knowledge and practical solutions for improving soil health. By promoting balanced fertilizer use and sustainable nutrient management, the programme contributes to resilient farming systems, improved agricultural productivity, and the long-term sustainability of natural resources.

Healthy soils today lay the foundation for prosperous farms tomorrow, ensuring better livelihoods for farmers and a more sustainable future for agriculture.