The ICAR–National Institute of Biotic Stress Management (ICAR-NIBSM), Raipur, in coordination with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Bemetara, launched the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyaan’ today in Bagaud village, Bemetara district, Chhattisgarh. The primary objective of this initiative is to create widespread awareness among farmers regarding the protection of crops from insect pests, diseases, and other biotic stresses, while encouraging the adoption of scientific, sustainable, and climate-resilient agricultural practices.

The launch event witnessed active interaction between agricultural scientists and local farmers to address practical challenges in crop protection and productivity. Prominent experts in attendance included Dr. Pankaj Sharma, Joint Director of ICAR-NIBSM and Nodal Officer of the Abhiyaan, alongside Dr. S. K. Jain, Dr. K. C. Sharma, Dr. Ajay Verma, and Dr. Lav Kumar from KVK Bemetara.

 

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Pankaj Sharma stressed the necessity of minimizing crop losses caused by biotic stresses to ensure farming remains profitable and sustainable. He urged farmers to shift towards crop diversification, crop rotation, and suitable alternative cropping systems, emphasizing that these practices reduce production risks, optimize resource utilization, and significantly enhance farm income. Dr. K. C. Sharma emphasized the significance of early pest and disease detection, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), balanced nutrient application, and the judicious use of chemical inputs to foster environmentally responsible farming. Complementing these points, Dr. Lav Kumar highlighted the role of soil health management and location-specific technologies in boosting overall crop yield.

 

The ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyaan’ seeks to bridge the gap between agricultural research and field implementation by facilitating the seamless transfer of laboratory-backed technologies to farmers' fields, ultimately safeguarding crop health and boosting agricultural biodiversity across the region.

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RDJ/PJ

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