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The ICAR–Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute (ICAR-MGIFRI), Motihari, Bihar under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) organised a farmer awareness and field interaction programme under Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026 at Kothia Hariram village in Mehsi Block of East Champaran on 27^th October, 2026. The programme focused on promoting balanced fertilisation, soil health management, nutrient recycling, crop diversification and sustainable management of mango and litchi orchards. A total of 29 farmers and participants attended the programme and interacted with scientists on practical approaches to improving orchard productivity and resource-use efficiency.

The programme was led by Dr. Amol K. Jadhav, Scientist, ICAR-MGIFRI, who emphasised the importance of soil-test-based nutrient management and balanced fertilisation for maintaining orchard productivity and long-term soil fertility. He explained that indiscriminate fertiliser application can increase cultivation costs and cause nutrient imbalances, whereas fertiliser use based on soil-test results, crop requirements and orchard conditions can improve nutrient-use efficiency and support sustainable production.

During the interaction, farmers were sensitised to nutrient recycling and the effective utilisation of locally available organic resources, including crop residues, fallen leaves, farmyard manure and compost. Dr. Jadhav explained that recycling these materials can improve soil organic matter, support better soil structure and nutrient availability, and reduce dependence on external inputs. He also highlighted the importance of combining organic resources with balanced mineral fertilisation for sustainable mango and litchi cultivation.

The programme highlighted the potential of intercropping and crop diversification in fruit orchards to improve land-use efficiency and create supplementary income opportunities. Farmers were encouraged to consider suitable intercrops, particularly legumes and other location-specific crops, according to orchard age, canopy coverage, seasonal moisture availability and crop compatibility. These practices can help utilise available resources more efficiently while diversifying farm income.

Participating farmers shared their experiences and challenges concerning fertiliser application, orchard soil health, organic resource management and intercropping. The interactive discussions helped raise awareness of practical, economically viable and environmentally sustainable approaches to improving the productivity and profitability of fruit-based farming systems.

Through Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026, ICAR-MGIFRI continues to promote balanced fertilisation, soil health improvement, sustainable horticultural practices and efficient natural resource management through direct engagement between scientists and farming communities. The initiative reinforces efforts to strengthen farmers’ self-reliance and promote climate-resilient agricultural livelihoods in the mango- and litchi-growing regions of East Champaran, Bihar.

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