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

A farmer awareness campaign on balanced use of fertilizers was organized by the ICAR-Directorate of Weed Research at Padaria village of Kundam block, Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh on 24 April 2026 under the ICAR-IRRI Collaborative Project. A total of 35 farmers, including 16 Mahila Kisans, participated in the programme.

Dr. P. K. Mukherjee, Principal Scientist and PI, emphasized the importance of effective weed management for improving fertilizer use efficiency and highlighted nutrient losses caused by weeds. He also stressed crop diversification with legumes and green manuring, along with need-based fertilizer application, proper urea use, direct-seeded rice, and residue management. Dr. Manoj Kumar Yadav, Senior Scientist (Plant Pathology), highlighted the role of disease management in enhancing crop productivity and nutrient use efficiency.

Farmers were sensitized on the use of biofertilizers and organic manures. A training on correct selection of herbicides, proper dose, time and method of application, and precautions to avoid crop injury and environmental hazards was explained with the distribution of herbicide (Propaquizafop + Imazethapyr) to the farmers including Mahila Kisans to promote weed management in greengram. Hon’ble MLA, Mr. Santosh Varkade, विधानसभा सिहोरा-कुंडम 102, interacted with the farmers and appreciated the efforts made by the Directorate in sensitizing them about various agricultural programmes. He commended the initiative for effectively reaching the farming community and also lauded the enthusiastic and active participation of farmers in the awareness campaign. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the lead farmer.