Street play raises awareness of soil conservation among Jharkhand farmers

RANCHI: The ICAR-National Institute of Secondary Agriculture (ICAR-NISA), Ranchi, organised a street play in collaboration with the Junior Plant Protection Officer, Ranchi, on Friday to raise awareness among farmers about soil conservation and sustainable agricultural practices.

The programme was held under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan and brought together 62 farmers from Lali and Rajaulatu villages in Namkum block. Participants included 38 women and 24 men.

Through the street play, farmers were encouraged to maintain soil fertility, protect soil health and adopt farming practices that conserve natural resources.

Focus on soil health and sustainable farming

The performance highlighted crop residue management, balanced fertiliser use, integrated pest management (IPM), and the conservation of natural resources.

Farmers were also encouraged to adopt sustainable agricultural practices and use chemical pesticides judiciously to reduce avoidable environmental harm.

The organisers used the street-play format to communicate agricultural messages in an accessible and engaging way, with the aim of improving farmers’ understanding of environmentally responsible cultivation.

Women farmers participate actively

The participation of 38 women farmers was a key feature of the programme. The organisers highlighted the important role women play in agriculture and the conservation of natural resources.

ICAR-NISA Director Dr Abhijit Kar and scientist S. K. Pandey attended the programme. Officials and staff members from both participating offices were also present.

The initiative forms part of efforts to promote awareness of soil protection and encourage farming methods that support long-term agricultural productivity.