Kenchanahalli, H.D. Kote, 24, 2026: ICAR-JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Suttur, Mysuru, in collaboration with Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM), successfully organised the “Khet Bachao Abhiyan and Distribution of Horticultural Saplings and Biological Pesticides under the SCSP/TSP Scheme” at Kenchanahalli village in H.D. Kote taluk of Mysuru district.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. B.N. Gyanesh, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra, highlighted the importance of soil testing, soil health management and the cultivation of alternative crops suitable for low-rainfall regions. He explained that understanding soil nutrient status and adopting balanced fertiliser application can reduce production costs while improving crop yields. He also emphasised the need to promote dryland horticultural crops to withstand changing climatic conditions and uncertain rainfall.
Dr. Shivakumar, Directorate of Agricultural Marketing and Inspection, Bengaluru, explained the objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan and stressed the importance of soil conservation and restoration in sustainable agriculture. He also briefed farmers about various Central Government schemes related to soil health improvement and encouraged them to take advantage of these initiatives.
Speaking on sustainable farming practices, Dr. Vinay G.M., Scientist, ICAR-JSS KVK, elaborated on the significance of organic and natural farming. He explained the role of green manure, bio-fertilisers, solid bio-fertilisers, vermicompost and other organic inputs in improving soil fertility and maintaining long-term soil health. He also shared technical guidance on the cultivation of butternut and mango crops.
Dr. Prasad provided practical information on the use of biological fungicides in agriculture and horticulture. He explained that products such as Trichoderma, Pseudomonas and Arka Microbial Consortium (AMC) help improve soil health, promote root development and effectively manage soil-borne diseases. He also demonstrated their application methods for different crops.
Presiding over the programme, Dr. Danius emphasised the importance of scientific farming and urged farmers to adopt research-based agricultural technologies to enhance productivity and improve farm income.
As part of the programme, fruit saplings were distributed free of cost under the SCSP and TSP schemes of ICAR-JSS Krishi Vigyan Kendra to encourage the cultivation of alternative horticultural crops in dryland and low-rainfall areas. Farmers received Avocado (Arka Supreme variety) and improved varieties of mango saplings.
To further promote organic farming, Arka Microbial Consortium (AMC) and Trichoderma biological products were also distributed free of cost. Farmers were informed that these bio-products help improve soil health, stimulate root growth and enhance disease resistance.
Members of the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM), including Akshaya and team, along with farm women, rural youth and a large number of farmers, participated in the programme and benefited from the technical sessions and distribution activities.
