Agricultural officers asked to spread awareness on sustainable farming techniques in every village
TFP Bureau, Raipur, April 4, 2026: In a major push toward sustainable agriculture, Agricultural Production Commissioner Shahla Nigar called for large-scale promotion of green manure, blue-green algae and bio-fertilizers across villages in Chhattisgarh. She emphasized that these eco-friendly alternatives can significantly reduce farmers’ dependence on chemical fertilizers while improving soil health and crop productivity.
The commissioner was addressing a one-day training program organized for agricultural officers and scientists at Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya in Raipur. The program focused on the production techniques and practical use of green manure, blue-green algae and bio-fertilizers in agriculture, particularly in preparation for the upcoming Kharif cropping season.
Inaugurating the training program, Shahla Nigar said the main objective of the initiative is to create awareness among farmers regarding sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers. She noted that in the current global scenario, uncertainty regarding fertilizer supplies makes it essential for the agriculture sector to adopt eco-friendly and locally available nutrient sources.
She informed the participants that green manure, blue-green algae and bio-fertilizers together can fulfill nearly 50 percent of the nutrient requirements of crops. These methods, she said, not only reduce input costs for farmers but also contribute to long-term soil fertility and environmental protection.
Directing agricultural officers to intensify outreach activities, the commissioner instructed them to ensure that the techniques and benefits of these alternatives reach farmers in every village of the state within the next two to three months. She emphasized that effective dissemination of these practices will play a crucial role in preparing farmers for the forthcoming Kharif season.
More than 150 agricultural officers, scientists and representatives from Krishi Vigyan Kendras across the state participated in the training program. Among those present was Vice-Chancellor Girish Chandel of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, along with several subject experts and senior officials from the agriculture department.
During the technical sessions, agricultural scientists explained the importance of adopting organic and environmentally sustainable farming practices. Experts highlighted that blue-green algae are particularly beneficial for paddy cultivation as they help in biological nitrogen fixation, thereby enriching the soil naturally.
Green manure, they explained, improves soil structure, enhances microbial activity and increases the availability of essential nutrients for crops. Scientists also stressed the importance of Integrated Nutrient Management, which combines organic inputs with judicious use of fertilizers to maintain soil health and ensure long-term productivity.
Participants in the training program also received hands-on demonstrations on the production of blue-green algae and its field application. Experts demonstrated simple techniques that farmers can adopt to cultivate algae locally and use it effectively in their fields.
Discussions were also held on strategies to ensure large-scale adoption of these eco-friendly practices across the state during the upcoming cropping season. Officials noted that promoting such alternatives can reduce the burden of rising fertilizer costs while making agriculture more resilient and sustainable.
Experts further pointed out that global developments and geopolitical tensions affecting petroleum supplies and fertilizer raw materials could disrupt fertilizer availability in the future. In this context, they said, Chhattisgarh’s efforts to promote green manure and bio-fertilizers represent a timely step toward strengthening self-reliance in agriculture.
At the conclusion of the program, participating officers and scientists pledged to actively promote sustainable farming practices and support farmers in adopting environmentally responsible agricultural methods. The initiative aims to build a more resilient and self-reliant agricultural system while safeguarding soil health and improving long-term productivity for farmers across the state.
