ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute

Dr. V.S. Santhosh Mithra welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of maintaining soil health for sustainable crop production. Dr. Jeena Mathew, Senior Scientist, ICAR-CTCRI, delivered a session on the maintenance of soil health for enhancing crop productivity. She emphasized the role of balanced nutrient management and sustainable soil practices in improving long-term farm productivity.

Dr. S.S. Veena handled a session on the critical link between soil health and plant health, explaining that healthy soils form the foundation for optimal crop growth and better resilience against pests and diseases.

A practical demonstration on the preparation of Jeevamritham and Beejamritham was conducted by Shri B. Satheesan and Shri C.S. Sooraj for the benefit of the farmers. The session provided hands-on knowledge on the preparation and application of these organic inputs for improving soil fertility and plant health.

The valedictory function was presided over by Dr. G. Suja, Head, Division of Crop Production, ICAR-CTCRI. During her address, Dr. Suja emphasized the need for an integrated approach to crop management and highlighted the importance of judicious and balanced fertilizer application for sustainable agriculture.

Quality planting materials of sweet potato were distributed to the farmers during the programme.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. S.S. Veena, Principal Scientist, ICAR-CTCRI. The awareness campaign was coordinated by Shri B. Satheesan, Smt. R. Nijamol, and Shri C.S. Sooraj.

A total of 26 farmers, comprising 17 male and 9 female participants from Panavoor Panchayat of Thiruvananthapuram district, attended the programme.