Mizoram guv launches ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ to curb soil degradation

Aizawl: Mizoram governor Gen Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), on Monday launched the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ at Lok Bhavan in Aizawl, aimed at tackling soil degradation through balanced, soil test-based fertiliser use and promotion of natural farming.

Addressing the gathering, the governor raised concern over excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides for higher yields, saying it has harmed farmland and human health, and called for urgent steps to protect agricultural land across the state.

Highlighting PM Narendra Modi’s national mission on natural farming, Gen Singh stressed a gradual shift towards natural farming to protect the environment and improve produce quality. He underlined soil testing to identify nutrient deficiencies and ensure appropriate crop nourishment, and urged agricultural scientists and experts to support farmers in adopting sustainable practices.

Saying Mizoram remains heavily dependent on agriculture, the Governor said dedicated efforts by experts and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) could help the state achieve food self-sufficiency while improving farmers’ incomes. He noted Mizoram’s produce is shaped by continued jhum cultivation on hilly terrain, where maintaining soil nutrient balance is challenging.

Gen Singh also called for continuous farmer training in modern scientific techniques, stronger market linkages for farm produce, and greater focus on healthy, high-value organic crops.

Anupam Mishra, VC of Central Agricultural University (CAU), Imphal, said the programme should reduce energy consumption in foodgrain production and that the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ would create awareness about central schemes and ensure effective implementation. He highlighted the role of Soil Health Cards, Kisan Credit Cards, Farmers’ IDs, and crop insurance in supporting farmers.

Earlier, Lalnuntluangi Hmar, dean of the College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry (CVSc&AH), Selesih, in Aizawl, delivered the welcome address, and students presented a skit on the campaign’s importance. The vote of thanks was proposed by KP Chaudhary, principal scientist and head of KVK Aizawl.

Agriculture and farmers’ welfare minister PC Vanlalruata, officials from line departments, and farmers attended the event.

Under the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’, the state will place special emphasis on reducing overuse of chemical fertilisers, particularly urea. Through June, agricultural scientists, KVK officials and state representatives will hold seminars and field demonstrations to train farmers in sustainable practices, promote green manuring, bio-fertilisers and organic nutrient sources, and help farmers access targeted govt programmes to improve soil health and agricultural productivity.