admin

Suttur, June 10, 2026: With the objective of protecting agricultural land fertility and promoting sustainable farming practices, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, has launched the Khet Bachao (Save Agricultural Land) Campaign across Mysuru district. The month-long campaign, being implemented in collaboration with the ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and the Department of Agriculture, commenced on June 1 and will continue until June 30, 2026.

The campaign aims to address the growing concern of excessive and unscientific use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which has led to declining soil fertility and deteriorating soil health. Experts have cautioned that continued degradation of agricultural land could adversely affect food production and agricultural sustainability in the future.

As part of the campaign, awareness programmes are being conducted in villages to educate farmers on the importance of soil health, scientific soil testing, balanced nutrient management, use of organic and natural fertilizers, and sustainable farming practices. Farmers are also being sensitized to the benefits of traditional inputs such as Jeevamrut, Gokripamrut, and Bijamrut for maintaining soil productivity and ecological balance.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. B.N. Gyanesh, Senior Scientist and Head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, emphasized that maintaining soil health is essential for securing the future of agriculture. He urged farmers to undertake regular soil testing and apply fertilizers based on recommendations provided through Soil Health Cards. He also stressed the collective responsibility of preserving agricultural land and passing it on to future generations in a fertile and productive condition.

To ensure extensive outreach, six subject matter specialists from Krishi Vigyan Kendra, along with officials from the Agriculture Department, have been divided into two teams. These teams are conducting awareness meetings and field demonstrations in villages across different taluks of the district every day.

On June 5, 2026, MLA Shri G.T. Devegowda participated in the Khet Bachao campaign at Jayapura village in Mysuru taluk and addressed farmers on the importance of scientific fertilizer application and soil testing for sustainable agricultural development.

The campaign is being implemented in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, MyCaps, ITC, and JSS Ayurveda Medical College. Awareness programmes have so far been conducted in villages including Kanagal and K. Basavanahalli in Periyapatna taluk, and Suttur, Chinnamballi, Kirugunda, Horalavadi, Alambur, Ayarahalli, and Hadajana in Mysuru taluk.

The campaign is being actively supported by Krishi Vigyan Kendra experts Smt. H.V. Divya, Shri Shamraj, Dr. U.M. Rakshitraj, Dr. G.M. Vinay, Dr. Y.P. Prasad, and Dr. Deepak, along with officials from the Agriculture, Horticulture, and Animal Husbandry Departments.

Suttur, June 10, 2026: Awareness and capacity-building programmes were organised at Debur, Hullahalli, and Hartale villages in Nanjangud taluk on the 10th day of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan.

As part of the campaign, scientists from KVK provided detailed guidance to farmers on scientific paddy cultivation, balanced and judicious use of fertilizers, the importance of bio-fertilizers, the benefits of green manure for improving soil health, and the promotion of natural farming practices.

The experts interacted with farmers and encouraged them to adopt sustainable agricultural methods to improve productivity, maintain soil fertility, reduce cultivation costs, and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.

The programme also created awareness on improved crop management practices and eco-friendly farming methods aimed at achieving better yields and profitability.

Subject Matter Experts Smt. H.V. Divya, Shri Shamraj, Dr. U.M. Rakshitraj, Dr. G.M. Vinay, Dr. Deepak, and officials from the Agriculture Department participated in the campaign on behalf of KVK.

Suttur, June 11, 2026: As part of the ongoing Khet Bachao (Save Agricultural Land) Campaign, ICAR–JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Suttur, in collaboration with DATC, Mysuru, and the Department of Agriculture, organized awareness programmes at Kasuvinahalli and Lakshmanapura villages in Nanjangud taluk on June 11, 2026.

The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp. During the event, Smt. H.V. Divya, Seed Technology Expert from ICAR–JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, conducted a demonstration on seed treatment and provided detailed information on the use of organic fertilizers, as well as the importance of Jeevamrut, Gokripamrut, and Beejamrut in sustainable agriculture.

Resource person Shri J.G. Rajanna highlighted the importance of soil health and emphasized that farmers should undertake regular soil testing and apply fertilizers based on recommendations provided through Soil Health Cards. Dr. R.N. Puppa, Plant Pathologist from the Department of Agriculture, educated farmers on the use of biological pesticides as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides for managing pests and diseases in various crops.

Agriculture Officer Smt. Madhuri informed farmers about the various subsidy schemes and support programmes being implemented by the Department of Agriculture for the benefit of the farming community.

The programme was welcomed and coordinated by Smt. M.B. Manjula. More than 100 farmers, including a large number of women farmers, participated in the programme and actively interacted with the scientists and experts on sustainable farming practices.

The campaign continues to create awareness among farmers on soil conservation, scientific crop management, and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices aimed at improving productivity and ensuring long-term soil health.

Suttur, May 25, 2026: “Knowing oneself is true liberation,” said Dr. M.R. Jayaram, Religious Head of Kaivara Kshetra, while delivering the valedictory address at the study camp organised by Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math, Sri Shivarathreeshwara Dharmika Datti and JSS Mahavidyapeetha at Suttur Srikshetra.

He said that experience and knowledge can be gained through the study of scriptures, while moksha is possible only through the grace and guidance of yogis. “Life becomes meaningful when one serves society selflessly,” he added.

Prof. Mallepuram G. Venkatesh, former Vice-Chancellor of Karnataka Sanskrit University, said the camp had contributed to the spiritual growth of the participants. Speaking about Viveka Chintamani by Nijaguna Shivayogi, he said the work provides answers to the inner conflicts of the mind and helps remove ignorance, creating a unique spiritual experience.

Mysuru Superintendent of Police Sri Mallikarjun Baladandi said that weapons alone cannot bring change in society, and that knowledge and science are equally important. He added that the guidance of spiritual thinkers is essential for the progress of society.

Sri H.V. Venkatesh, former President of Mysore Arak and Dye Factory, said that while the world has progressed through science and technology, spiritual awareness is vital for leading a peaceful life. Expressing concern over the younger generation falling prey to drug addiction, he said the grace and guidance of elders and gurus are important in shaping their conduct.

Retired Professor Prof. K. Anantharam said the camp had been successfully completed and noted that the roots of spiritual practice lie in Suttur Srikshetra, while its fruits have spread across the country. He said true wisdom lies in using one’s knowledge for the welfare of society and added that such camps promote the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Sri Mallaiah Swami of Ghodageri Sri Sivananda Matha said that both the inner and outer life of a person should be pure. One must keep the body, speech and mind under control and act according to one’s words, he said. He also explained the concepts of Kriya Shakti, Matrutva Shakti, Maheshwara Shakti and Sadashiva Shakti, along with references to Krita Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dwapara Yuga and Kali Yuga from the eighth, ninth and tenth chapters of Viveka Chintamani.

Sri Siddalinga Sivananda Swami of Huliyur Durga, Sadhvi Unmeshabharati Mataji, Sri B.S. Janagonda, Smt. Aruna Shiraguppi and Ms. Sinchana shared their experiences. Mata Basavanjali offered the prayer. Sri Channabasava Swamiji of Chunchanahalli and Navilur Mathas welcomed the gathering. Sri K.P. Basavaraju presented the camp report, while Sri B. Madappa proposed the vote of thanks. Dr. Rudramuni Swamiji of Alamatti compered the programme.

Dr. M.R. Jayaram, Head of Kaivara Srikshetra, delivered the valedictory address at the study camp held at Suttur Srikshetra on May 25. The camp was jointly organised by Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math, Sri Shivarathreeshwara Religious Endowment and JSS Mahavidyapeetha. Sri H.A. Venkatesh, Sri Mallikarjuna Baladandi, Sri Mallayaswamy, Prof. Mallepuram G. Venkatesh and Prof. K. Anantharam were present.

Suttur, 22nd May, 2026: Self-realization is possible through the grace of Sadguru, said retired professor Dr. K. Anantharamu while delivering a lecture on Nijaguna Shivayogi’s Viveka Chintamani at Suttur Srikshetra on May 22.

The lecture was organized for Mathadhipatis, Matajis, spiritual seekers and sadhakas at the joint premises of Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasansthana Math, Sri Shivaratreeshwara Dharmika Datti and JSS Mahavidyapeetha.

Dr. Anantharamu said that the secret of liberation from bondage can be understood with the guidance of the Guru. He stated that the state of Brahman can be attained through concentration of the mind. One must follow the path of devotion and realize the Self, he said, adding that the body is perishable while the Self is eternal.

Explaining the second chapter of Viveka Chintamani, he said that it deals with the Agamas, various branches of Shaiva philosophy and, in particular, Veerashaiva philosophy. He said that one should receive Linga Deeksha from a Guru and meditate upon Lord Shiva with devotion. By gradually following the path of Ashtavarana, Panchachara and Shatsthala, one can ultimately become one with Shiva, he added.

Sri Mallaiah Swami of Sri Shivananda Math, Ghodageri, said that the land, water and air of India are sacred. He described India as a holy land of devotion, meditation and detachment. Referring to the description of the physical world in Viveka Chintamani, he said that the text explains the seven islands and seven oceans. A person seeking self-realization should also understand the physical world, he said. He further stated that nature possesses immense power and that it is the basis for the survival of all living beings.

Sri P.R. Rahul Srivatsara, a pranic healing expert, said that the soul gives vitality to the body. He explained that meditation is the unification of the mind and body. When the energy of nature is harmonized with the energy of the body, physical defects and pain can be reduced, he said.

In the evening, prayers and Kapilarathi were performed with devotion on the banks of the Kapila River. Sri Mahadeva Prasad spoke about the importance of rivers. Sri Rudramuni Swami of Almatti administered a pledge to the participants in the name of God to protect rivers. Later, the camp participants presented a cultural programme.

Retired Kannada professor Dr. K. Anantharamu and Sri Mallaiah Swami delivered lectures on May 22 during the study camp on Nijaguna Shivayogi’s Viveka Chintamani, organized for Mathadhipatis, Matajis, spiritual seekers and practitioners under the joint auspices of Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math, Sri Shivaratreeshwara Dharmika Datti and JSS Mahavidyapeetha at Suttur Srikshetra. Participants attended the sessions with keen interest.  

Kapilarathi was performed with devotion on the evening of May 22 during the study camp organized under the joint auspices of Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math, Sri Shivaratreeshwara Religious Endowment and JSS Mahavidyapeetha at Suttur Srikshetra. Mathadhipatis, sadhakas and spiritual seekers participated in the programme by lighting lamps and offering prayers to Goddess Kapila.

Suttur, May 5, 2026: Natural farming and soil health are essential for the prosperity of farmers, said Dr. P.L. Patil, Vice-Chancellor, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad.

He was delivering the valedictory address at the farmers’ camp organised under the joint auspices of Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math, Sri Shivarathreeshwara Religious Endowment and JSS Mahavidyapeetha at Suttur Srikshetra on May 3.

Dr. Patil said farmers are the backbone of the country and the lifeline of the land. “A country can prosper only when its farmers prosper. Let ours be self-respecting agriculture. However modern the world becomes, human beings cannot live on computer chips; they need the food grains grown through the sweat of farmers,” he said.

Comparing the role of farmers with that of soldiers, he said, “If a soldier guards the borders of the nation, a farmer satisfies the hunger of the nation.” He urged farmers not to lose heart and advised them to combine hard work with knowledge.

Dr. S.M. Shivaprakash, retired Extension Director, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, Bidar, said every farmer can achieve success through honest effort. “When a farmer smiles, the whole world rejoices. To attain true happiness and peace, one must make life joyful and meaningful,” he said.

Dr. G.M. Devagiri, Research Director, University of Agricultural Sciences, Mandya, said that every drop of a farmer’s sweat has the value of a pearl, but the farmer’s life becomes golden only when that pearl gets the right price. He advised farmers to take up new experiments at least on a portion of their land and focus on value addition instead of selling crops in raw form.

“This is the time to cultivate not only with hard work, but also with skill,” he said.

Shri H. Nagendra Kumar, exporter of agricultural products, Rajamudi Organics Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, spoke on the opportunities in agricultural exports. He said farmers should grow food products that are in demand, identify foreign markets, ensure attractive and quality packaging as per international standards, fix prices properly and enter into suitable agreements.

He said the Karnataka government would support farmers through the corporation for the export and market expansion of agricultural products. He added that new opportunities are available in the processing and export of food grains, spices, dairy products, seafood and plant-based proteins. Success in the export business can be achieved through the selection of good products, proper documentation and trusted buyers, he said.

Sri Ganesh, Smt. Kaveramma Bailemane, Sri Anantharamaswamy, Sri Jagadish S. Hiremath and Sri Shivakumar shared their views on the occasion.

Dr. B.N. Gyanesh presented the camp report. Sri Prithvi rendered the prayer. Dr. U.M. Rakshit Raj welcomed the gathering, Dr. Deepak proposed a vote of thanks and Dr. Y.P. Prasad compered the programme.

 Dr. P.L. Patil, Vice-Chancellor, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, delivered the valedictory address on May 3 at the farmers’ camp organised under the joint auspices of Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasthana Mahasamsthana Math, Sri Shivarathreeshwara Religious Endowment and JSS Mahavidyapeetha at Suttur Srikshetra; Dr. S.M. Shivaprakash and Dr. G.M. Devagiri are also seen, along with campers and coordinators in the group photograph.

Suttur, May 4, 2026: Mixed cropping is a stream of profit for farmers, said Dr. Nagarajappa Adivappar, Professor and Head, Areca Research Centre, Keladi Shivappanayaka Agricultural and Horticultural University, Shivamogga.

He was delivering a lecture at a farmers’ camp organised by Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math, Sri Shivaratreeshwara Religious Endowment and JSS Mahavidyapeetha at Suttur Srikshetra.

Speaking on sustainable agriculture, Dr. Adivappar said crop diversity and mixed cropping systems are two important pillars that help farmers increase income while protecting the environment. He advised farmers to give priority to mixed cropping, especially during monsoon and winter crop seasons. “There should be honesty in agriculture and faith in crops. When farmers engage in agriculture with full commitment, profit is possible,” he said.

Dr. H.V. Bindu, in her address, said organic farming improves the fertility of declining soil and helps maintain environmental balance. She noted that healthy and safe food means nutritious and fresh food, and added that there is growing demand for organic products.

She advised farmers to adopt a scientific approach from sowing to harvesting, make proper use of credit and insurance facilities, and carefully calculate production costs. She also said farmers can benefit from technical and marketing training through the Agricultural Marketing Committee. The Karnataka government has provided facilities in more than 162 markets for farmers to sell agricultural products directly to consumers, helping them secure better prices.

“Agriculture should not be viewed merely as farming, but as an industry. When agricultural production is managed according to market demand, farmers can earn higher profits,” she said.

As part of the camp, participants took part in mass prayers and yoga practice in the morning. During Suttur Darshan, they watched an animation documentary on the Guru lineage of the Srimath and learned about its rich history. They visited the Moola Matha, Sri Someshwara Temple, Sri Mahadeshwara Beesukallu and Sri Veerabhadreshwara Temple, and received blessings.

The participants also visited Krishi Vigyan Kendra, where they observed crop demonstrations, and later visited the goshala to learn about desi cattle breeds.

In the evening, prayers and Kapilarathi were performed with devotion on the banks of the Kapila River. Sri G.L. Tripurantaka spoke on the importance of rivers. The day concluded with a cultural programme presented by the campers.

Dr. Nagarajappa Adivappar and Dr. H.V. Bindu delivered lectures on May 2 at a farmers’ camp organised under the joint auspices of Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math, Sri Shivaratreeshwara Religious Endowment and JSS Mahavidyapeetha at Suttur Srikshetra. 

Kapilarathi was performed on the evening of May 2 during the farmers’ camp organised under the joint auspices of Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthan Math, Sri Shivarathreeshwara Religious Endowment and JSS Mahavidyapeetha at Suttur Srikshetra, where participants lit lamps and offered their devotion to Goddess Kapila.