Khet Bachao Abhiyan: Scientists Advise Mango, Litchi Growers in Champaran
Motihari, 27 October 2026: The ICAR-Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute (ICAR-MGIFRI), Motihari, organised a farmer awareness and field interaction programme under Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026 at Kothia Hariram village in Mehsi Block, East Champaran, on 27 October. A total of 29 farmers and participants attended.
Soil-test-based nutrient management
Dr. Amol K. Jadhav, Scientist at ICAR-MGIFRI, who led the programme, stressed that fertiliser use should be based on soil-test results, crop requirements and orchard conditions. He said indiscriminate application raises cultivation costs and causes nutrient imbalances, while balanced fertilisation improves nutrient-use efficiency and keeps orchards productive over the long term.
Recycling organic resources
Farmers were encouraged to make better use of local organic resources such as crop residues, fallen leaves, farmyard manure and compost. According to Dr. Jadhav, recycling these materials improves soil organic matter, soil structure and nutrient availability, and cuts dependence on external inputs. He advised combining them with balanced mineral fertilisation for mango and litchi cultivation.
Intercropping for extra income
The programme also highlighted intercropping, particularly with legumes and other location-specific crops, to improve land-use efficiency and add to farm income. Farmers were advised to choose intercrops according to orchard age, canopy coverage, seasonal moisture and crop compatibility.
Participating farmers shared their experiences and challenges on fertiliser application, orchard soil health, organic resource management and intercropping.
Through Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026, ICAR-MGIFRI continues to promote soil health, sustainable horticulture and climate-resilient livelihoods in the mango- and litchi-growing regions of East Champaran.
