RAISEN, 1 June 2026: Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday launched the nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ from Ramasiya village in Madhya Pradesh's Raisen, calling for balanced fertilizer use, soil testing, water conservation, natural farming, and scientific agricultural practices to safeguard India's agricultural future.
The month-long campaign, running from June 1 to June 30, aims to create awareness among farmers about sustainable farming practices and the importance of maintaining soil health. Addressing farmers, scientists, and agriculture officials, Chouhan emphasized that protecting soil fertility is critical for ensuring long-term agricultural productivity, farmer prosperity, and national food security.
"The Earth is our mother, and protecting its health is our collective responsibility. If the soil is protected, agriculture will flourish, farmers will become stronger, and the nation will prosper," the minister said.
Focus on Soil Health and Balanced Fertilizer Use
The campaign will encourage farmers to adopt scientific nutrient management practices based on soil testing and Soil Health Cards. Chouhan cautioned against the excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, noting that indiscriminate application can degrade soil fertility, destroy beneficial microorganisms, increase cultivation costs, and reduce long-term productivity.
He stressed that fertilizers should be applied according to the actual nutrient requirements of the soil rather than in excessive quantities, even though they are available at subsidized rates.
Nationwide Awareness Drive
Under the initiative, agricultural scientists, experts from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), agricultural universities, state agriculture departments, and public representatives will conduct extensive outreach programs in villages across the country.
Farmers will receive training on:
- Soil testing and Soil Health Cards
- Balanced nutrient management
- Natural farming practices
- Water conservation techniques
- Modern sowing methods
- Scientific crop management
- Green manuring
- Seed treatment and crop-specific recommendations
The campaign will also create awareness about counterfeit fertilizers and pesticides and guide farmers on selecting suitable crop varieties based on local agro-climatic conditions.
Demonstrations and Farmer Training
The Union Minister announced that special field demonstrations would be organized for soybean, paddy, and pulse crops. Farmers will be trained in the use of improved seeds, laser levellers, water-efficient farming techniques, and other modern agricultural technologies.
Regular capacity-building programmes will be conducted through Krishi Vigyan Kendras and agricultural institutions to help farmers adopt climate-resilient and sustainable farming practices.
Linking Agriculture with Rural Development
Chouhan also highlighted the role of women and youth in rural development. He said women would be connected to income-generating opportunities through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), while youth would receive skill development, guidance, and employment support.
He emphasized that rural development extends beyond infrastructure and includes creating sustainable livelihoods, enhancing incomes, and building self-reliant villages.
People's Movement for Sustainable Agriculture
The Agriculture Minister expressed confidence that the campaign would evolve into a nationwide people's movement driven by farmer participation. He directed officials to ensure continuous engagement with farmers and provide on-ground technical support.
The campaign will also facilitate awareness about various Central and State Government schemes aimed at supporting farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture.
A large number of farmers, agricultural scientists, KVK experts, public representatives, and government officials participated in the launch event. Nutrition kits were also distributed to malnourished children during the programme.
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