A farmer awareness campaign on balanced use of fertilizer conducted by ICAR-Directorate of Weed Research Jabalpur

A farmer awareness campaign on the balanced use of fertilizers was successfully conducted by the ICAR-Directorate of Weed Research, Jabalpur, at Khukkham village, a tribal-dominated area in Kundam block of Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh on 8th April 2026. The programme was organized under the ICAR-IRRI Collaborative Project with the objective of promoting sustainable nutrient management practices among the farmers. A total of 56 farmers, including 26 Mahila Kisans, actively participated in the campaign, reflecting strong community engagement and interest in improved agricultural practices.

At the outset, Dr. P. K. Mukherjee, Principal Scientist and Principal Investigator of the project, delivered an informative lecture emphasizing the critical role of effective weed management in ensuring balanced fertilizer use. He highlighted that weeds are major competitors for nutrients and can remove significant quantities of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium from the soil, thereby reducing nutrient availability to crops. He elaborated on how timely and effective weed control can minimize nutrient losses and enhance fertilizer use efficiency. Dr. Mukherjee further stressed the importance of crop diversification, particularly the inclusion of legumes such as greengram and the adoption of green manuring crops in existing cropping systems. These practices, he explained, not only improve soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation but also contribute to sustainable crop production.

The campaign also covered key aspects of need-based fertilizer application, appropriate methods of fertilizer use especially urea application, promotion of direct-seeded rice (DSR), and the significance of crop residue management. Additionally, farmers were sensitized about the benefits of integrating biofertilizers and organic manures with chemical fertilizers to maintain soil health and improve long-term productivity. As a part of the campaign initiative, greengram seeds (Variety ‘Virat’) were distributed to Mahila Kisans to encourage the adoption of legume-based cropping systems and enhance nutritional and economic security. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the lead farmer, expressing gratitude to the organizing team and participants for making the event successful and impactful.