Balanced Use of Fertilizers Takes Center Stage at Farmer–Scientist Interaction in Purnea

Agriculture in Purnea district is primarily based on alluvial soils, where intensive cultivation of paddy, maize, and wheat is widely practiced. However, in the pursuit of higher production, the excessive and imbalanced use of chemical fertilizers has emerged as a serious concern, leading to declining soil fertility and rising input costs.

In this context, a Farmer–Scientist Interaction Programme on the theme “Balanced Use of Fertilizers” was organized on May 5, 2026, at Kathaili village in Jalalgarh block under the joint aegis of ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, and Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Purnea. Around 100 farmers, including 30 women participants, actively took part in the programme.

During the event, special emphasis was laid on the importance of Integrated Nutrient Management for sustainable agriculture. Experts highlighted the need for balanced use of chemical fertilizers along with organic sources such as farmyard manure, compost, and green manure. In the interactive session, farmers shared concerns related to declining soil fertility, increasing cost of cultivation, and growing dependence on fertilizers. Scientists addressed these issues by providing practical, location-specific solutions.

Elaborating on the importance of green manuring, it was advised that crops like dhaincha grown during the summer season and incorporated into the soil before paddy transplantation significantly enhance organic matter content. This improves soil structure and increases the availability of essential nutrients, including nitrogen, thereby reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers and lowering production costs. To promote this practice, dhaincha (green manure) seeds were distributed among farmers during the programme.

Farmers were also advised to adopt soil test-based nutrient management and to apply fertilizers as per the recommendations given in the Soil Health Card. Emphasis was placed on following the right dose, time, and method of fertilizer application to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce costs.

In his message, Dr. Anup Das, Director, ICAR–RCER, Patna urged farmers to prioritize soil health and adopt balanced fertilizer use. He emphasized that practices such as crop residue recycling and green manuring not only reduce production costs but also ensure long-term stability in productivity and farm income.

“The programme was successfully conducted with the contributions of Dr. Santosh Kumar and Dr. Ghous Ali from ICAR–RCER, Patna; Dr. K.M. Singh from Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Purnea; District Agriculture Officer Shri Haridwar Chaurasia; Block Agriculture Officer Shri Kamlesh Mishra along with other experts” said Sh. Umesh Kumar Mishra, Member Secretary, Media, ICAR-RCER, Patna.