Awareness Programme under Khet Bachao Abhiyan 
A one-day awareness programme under Khet Bachao Abhiyan on the theme “Healthy Soil – Empowered Farmers – Prosperous India” was organized by the CRRI-Central Rainfed Upland Rice Research Station, Hazaribagh in association with Birsa Agricultural University (BAU), Ranchi on 9 June 2026 at BAU, Ranchi.
The programme was attended by 40 FPO Members representing five FPOs. Dr. Neetu Kumari, Assistant Professor cum Junior Scientist, BAU, Ranchi, welcomed all the participants and distinguished guests to the programme. The Chief Guest, Dr. B. K. Jha, HOD, AEE, BAU, Ranchi extended his greetings to the participants and explained the role and responsibility of Board of Director (BoDs).
Dr. Shiv Mangal Prasad, Principal Scientist (Agronomy) highlighted the importance of soil testing in maintaining soil fertility and ensuring efficient nutrient management. He also discussed the benefits and methods of using green manure and provided detailed information on the preparation of enriched compost, NADEP compost, and vermicompost. Dr. Soumya Saha, Scientist (Agronomy), discussed on the Green Manuring, Brown Manuring techniques and importance in soil health management. Dr. Arunkumara C.G., Scientist (Entomology) explained the importance of biofertilizer usage for the soil health management and also discussed on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in reducing cultivation costs and increasing farm profitability. Further, he informed the farmers about climate-resilient, high-yielding rice varieties suitable for cultivation, including CR Dhan 320, CR Dhan 214, CR Dhan 804, and Sahbhagi Dhan. Mr. Sidharth Jaiswal, CEO, BPD-BAU &OSD, CABM, BAU, Ranchi highlighted business plan for FPOs for better profit and long-term sustainability. Dr. Neetu Kumari, Assistant Professor cum Junior Scientist, BAU, Ranchi, delivered a brief session on the use of AI tools for accessing information on government schemes and enhancing marketing strategies.
During the interactive question-and-answer session, experts addressed queries related to weed management, plant protection and seed availability. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Abhishek Shrivastava, Project Executive, FPOs, ICAR-CRRI, Cuttack & BAU Ranchi.
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