ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute

An Awareness Campaign on Soil Health Management and Balanced Use of Fertilizers was organized on 1 June 2026 at Krishi Bhavan, Vembayam, Thiruvananthapuram by the MGMG team of the 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 Aswathy K. Sasidharan, Agricultural Officer, Vembayam, who emphasized the importance of maintaining soil nutrient balance through appropriate technological interventions to ensure sustainable agricultural production.

Welcoming the participants, V. S. Santhosh Mithra highlighted the significance of soil health management in improving crop productivity and sustaining soil fertility. During the technical sessions, G. Suja elaborated on integrated crop management practices, balanced fertilizer use, soil test-based nutrient application, and the role of organic manures and biofertilizers in maintaining soil health.

S. S. Veena explained the relationship between soil health and plant protection, emphasizing the importance of beneficial microorganisms such as Trichoderma, Pseudomonas, and Bacillus in enhancing plant health and suppressing diseases. A. Asha Devi delivered a lecture on tuber crop varieties, with special emphasis on nutrient-efficient cassava varieties suitable for sustainable cultivation.

As part of the practical demonstrations, B. Satheesan demonstrated the preparation of minisett planting materials of various tuber crops. Quality sweet potato and cassava planting materials were also distributed to participating farmers to encourage the adoption of improved cultivation practices.

A total of 36 farmers, including 12 women farmers, participated in the programme and actively interacted with the experts on various aspects of soil health management, nutrient stewardship, and sustainable crop production.

The programme formed part of the ongoing efforts of ICAR-CTCRI to promote scientific soil management practices and balanced fertilizer use among farmers for enhancing productivity while preserving soil health and environmental sustainability.