Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
PAU-KVK Kapurthala launches ‘Meri Mitti Mere Jeev’ campaign to restore soil health
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana, October 9, 2024: In an effort to improve soil health and sustainability in agriculture, Punjab Agricultural University's Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Kapurthala launched the ‘Meri Mitti Mere Jeev campaign, in collaboration with the Department of Microbiology, aiming to address the detrimental effects of excessive chemical fertilizer use and promoting the adoption of biofertilizers among farmers, particularly in potato-growing regions.
Dr. Harinder Singh, Associate Director of KVK Kapurthala, delivered an insightful presentation to farmers from District Kapurthala.
He emphasized the pressing issue of overusing fertilizers like DAP and Urea in potato cultivation. He highlighted the adverse impact of these practices on soil health and the environment and the economic burden on India due to high subsidies for these fertilizers. The campaign "Meri Mitti Mere Jeev" was inaugurated in Mothanwal, a leading potato-producing village, to improve fertiliser efficiency and restore soil vitality.
Dr Jupinder Kaur, a Microbiologist at PAU Ludhiana, delivered a detailed lecture on the role of biofertilizers in enhancing soil quality.She stressed the importance of integrating biofertilizers in potato-growing areas and explained how microbes play a crucial role in nutrient cycling for various crops, fostering a healthier soil ecosystem.
Dr. Urmila Gupta, Head of the Department of Microbiology at PAU, provided insights into the use of biozymes in agriculture and household settings. She demonstrated the process of preparing biozymes using kinnow droppings and other organic waste, offering practical applications for home and commercial use.
Dr. Pratibha, Assistant Professor of Microbiology at PAU, discussed the benefits of combining biofertilizers with chemical fertilizers to enhance soil health and improve nutrient availability for crops like potatoes and wheat.
Gagandeep Dhawan, Assistant Professor of Soil Science at KVK Kapurthala, advised farmers to conduct soil testing before sowing potatoes and highlighted the benefits of using rice straw as an organic manure alternative to boost soil fertility.
Dr Amandeep Kaur, Associate Professor of Vegetable Science at KVK Kapurthala, introduced farmers to newly released potato varieties (PP-101 and PP-102) and encouraged them to adopt advanced agricultural practices developed by PAU, Ludhiana.
She also promoted the chemical-free cultivation of fruits and vegetables at the household level for better health and sustainability.
Dr Mandeep Singh, Assistant Professor of Agronomy at KVK Kapurthala, shared insights on the latest wheat varieties and guided effective straw management techniques for potato cultivation.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Farmer Karnail Singh, who expressed his appreciation for the valuable knowledge shared by PAU, Ludhiana, and pledged the farmers' commitment to implementing the recommended practices for better soil management in Mothanwal.