The ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region (ICAR-RCER), Patna, organized a farmers’ interaction and awareness programme under the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ at Sharistabad village in Naubatpur block of Patna district on October 28, 2026. A total of 112 farmers, including 54 women and 58 men, participated in the programme. The farmers were sensitized to the importance of crop diversification, crop rotation, integrated farming systems, scientific fish farming, and efficient management of agricultural resources.
During the programme, Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyaya, Head, Division of Land and Water Management, emphasized the importance of timely agricultural operations, balanced fertilizer application, quality agricultural inputs, and the adoption of scientific farming technologies. He advised farmers to apply fertilizers judiciously based on soil test results and adopt effective soil and water conservation practices for improved farm management. He further highlighted that effective utilization of market information, financial resources, timely technical guidance, and agricultural infrastructure could help reduce cultivation costs, enhance productivity, and make farming more profitable and sustainable.
Dr. Manibhushan, Principal Scientist, encouraged farmers to adopt crop rotation and promote crop diversification. Highlighting the significance of integrated farming systems, he explained that integrating different agricultural enterprises could enhance overall farm productivity and diversify farmers’ sources of income.
Dr. Surendra Kumar Ahirwal, Scientist, provided insights into various aspects of scientific fish farming. He also highlighted the benefits of planting fruit-bearing trees along pond embankments, explaining that this practice could ensure better utilization of available land, generate additional income, and promote integrated farming by combining fisheries with horticultural activities.
P. K. Singh, Assistant Chief Technical Officer, advised farmers to incorporate pulses and oilseed crops into their crop rotation practices. He explained that cultivating these crops could promote agricultural diversification, help maintain soil health, and contribute to the development of sustainable farming systems.
Umesh Kumar Mishra, Member Secretary, Media, ICAR-RCER, Patna, stated that the programme aimed to enhance farmers’ awareness of scientific agricultural practices, promote soil and water resource conservation, and improve farm profitability through the integration of crop production and fish farming.