Chandel, June 2, 2026: The "KHET BACHAO ABHIYAAN" (Save the Soil Campaign) awareness programme was successfully conducted today at the ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel campus. The programme was organized in collaboration with the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Chandel, with the objective of promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing awareness among farmers on the importance of soil health and balanced nutrient management. The programme was attended by Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist and Head, ICAR-KVK Chandel; Ts. Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Breeding); Dr. Kl. Levish Chongloi, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy); Dr. K. Sonamani Singh, Subject Matter Specialist (Agril. Engg.); Ps. Lavid Anal, Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture), ICAR-KVK Chandel; and Hb. Tailyn, Village Extension Worker (VEW), and Maku Jimrose, VEW, Department of Agriculture, Chandel. Addressing the gathering, Dr. A. Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist and Head of ICAR-KVK Chandel, highlighted the growing concern of soil degradation caused by the indiscriminate and excessive use of chemical fertilizers. She emphasized the need for farmers to adopt Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) practices to maintain soil fertility, reduce cultivation costs, and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability. During the technical session, Dr. Kl. Levish Chongloi, Subject Matter Specialist (Agronomy), elaborated on the importance of soil health and scientific fertilizer application. She stressed that fertilizer recommendations should be based on Soil Health Card (SHC) results and explained the principles of applying fertilizers at the right time, in the right quantity, and through the right method. She also cautioned farmers against the excessive use of urea, noting its adverse effects on soil microorganisms and overall soil health. Speaking on crop productivity and seed quality, Ts. Leenda Monsang, Subject Matter Specialist (Plant Breeding), emphasized the role of balanced plant nutrition in achieving optimum crop growth and realizing the genetic potential of crop varieties. She highlighted that proper nutrient management not only enhances yield but also strengthens plants against pests and diseases. Representing the Department of Agriculture, Maku Jimrose, VEW, informed participants about various government schemes and support services available to farmers. She explained the procedures for availing benefits under different agricultural welfare programmes and highlighted subsidy provisions for farm machinery and other agricultural inputs. The programme concluded with an interactive scientist–farmer discussion session, during which participants actively engaged with experts from ICAR-KVK Chandel and the Department of Agriculture. Farmers raised queries related to soil health management, fertilizer use, and government support schemes, making the event a productive platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building. The awareness campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation from 40 farmers and reinforced the collective commitment of ICAR-KVK Chandel and ATMA Chandel towards promoting sustainable, soil-friendly, and climate-resilient agricultural practices in the district.