ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute

An Awareness Campaign on Soil Health Management and Balanced Use of Fertilizers was organized on 8 May 2026 at MGNREGS Hall, Naruvamoodu, Pallichal, Thiruvananthapuram by the MGMG team of ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute in association with the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Kerala. The programme was led by Dr. V.S. Santhosh Mithra along with Dr. G. Suja, Dr. S.S. Veena, Dr. A. Asha Devi, Shri. B. Satheesan and Smt. R. Nijamol.

The campaign was inaugurated by Smt. Premavalli, Deputy Director of Agriculture, who highlighted the importance of maintaining soil nutrient balance through technological interventions. Dr. V.S. Santhosh Mithra welcomed the gathering, while the meeting was presided over by Smt. V. Bindhu, President, Pallichal Grama Panchayat. Dr. G. Suja emphasized integrated crop management, balanced fertilizer use, soil test-based nutrient application, and the importance of organic inputs and biofertilizers. Dr. S.S. Veena explained the role of soil health in plant protection and highlighted beneficial microbes like Trichoderma, Pseudomonas, and Bacillus. Shri. B. Satheesan and Sooraj demonstrated the preparation of Jeevamritham and Beejamritham. Quality sweet potato planting materials were distributed to farmers. Around 50 farmers attended the programme.