ICAR-DFR, Pune Organises Khet Bachao Abhiyan and Kharif Planning Programme

18 June 2026, Pune

The Khet Bachao Abhiyan and Kharif Planning Programme was jointly organized by the Scientists of AICRP on Floriculture, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Zonal Agricultural Research Station (ZARS), Ganeshkhind, Pune, the Department of Agriculture, Government of Maharashtra, and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Baramati on 18 June 2026 at Walhe, Taluka Purandar, District Pune.

Addressing the gathering, Dr D. B. Lad, Associate Director of Research, ZARS, Ganeshkhind, Pune, emphasized the importance of soil testing, green manuring, crop rotation, organic farming, and Integrated Nutrient Management for sustainable agricultural production. He encouraged farmers to adopt these practices to improve soil health, enhance crop productivity, and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers.

An expert session highlighted the scope and economic potential of floriculture, providing guidance to farmers on selecting suitable flower crops and planning for the Kharif 2026 season based on local conditions and market demand. The importance of adopting scientific cultivation practices to enhance productivity and profitability was also emphasized.

An informative lecture was delivered on the potential impact of El Niño on agriculture, explaining its likely effects on rainfall patterns and crop production. Farmers were advised on appropriate management strategies to reduce weather-related risks and improve resilience.

Participants were also informed about various government schemes and welfare programmes available for farmers and were encouraged to make full use of these initiatives for agricultural and economic development.

The programme concluded with an interactive discussion session during which farmers raised queries related to crop planning, soil fertility management, floriculture, climate resilience, and government support schemes. The participants appreciated the expert guidance and expressed their willingness to adopt the recommended scientific agricultural practices to improve soil health, reduce the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and ensure sustainable agricultural production during the forthcoming Kharif season.

The programme was attended by 82 farmers, including 67 men and 15 women. The primary objective was to promote Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and create awareness among farmers about scientific crop management practices and effective planning for the upcoming Kharif season.

(Source: ICAR-Directorate of Floricultural Research, Pune)