12 May 2026, Jodhpur

A Farmers awareness program for Balanced use of fertilizers under Intensive awareness campaign on the science-based, balanced, and judicious use of fertilizers was successfully organized today by ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone-II, Jodhpur. Aligned with the objectives of the Bhumi Suposhan and Samrakshan Jan Abhiyan, the programme underscored the critical importance of soil health management and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices through the judicious use of fertilizers.

Dr J P Mishra, Director, ICAR-ATARI-II, Jodhpur, emphasized the need for a convergent, science-based approach to nutrient management, anchored in soil test-based recommendations and the use of Soil Health Cards. He highlighted the importance of enhancing soil organic matter through practices such as green manuring, and advocated for integrating organic inputs with bio-fertilizers under the framework of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM). He further stressed the need to promote balanced fertilizer application including NPK complexes, SSP, and micronutrients—while discouraging the indiscriminate use of urea and DAP to safeguard long-term soil health and sustainability.

The scientists of the institute, Dr. P P Rohilla, Dr. M S Meena, Dr. B L Jangid, Dr. H N Meena and Dr. Ganga Devi also shared their thought on the balanced use of fertilizers and its various aspects. The programme also brought attention to the emerging concerns associated with the imbalanced and excessive use of chemical fertilizers. While acknowledging their significant role in boosting crop productivity, experts noted that unscientific application has led to declining soil health, reduced nutrient-use efficiency, and increasing environmental risks. If such practices persist, they may adversely impact long-term agricultural sustainability as well as farm profitability.

The programme witnessed the active participation of 35 farmers from Phalodi and Barmer districts of Rajasthan.

(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Zone-II, Jodhpur)