Khet Bachao Abhiyan Conducted at Saidapur Village, Yadagirigutta on 23 June 2026
As part of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan, a farmer awareness and technology dissemination programme was organized on 23 June 2026 at Saidapur Village, Yadagirigutta Mandal, Telangana. The programme focused on promoting sustainable nutrient management and climate-resilient rice cultivation practices among farmers and was also attended by the Village Sarpanch, Director, Dairy Cooperatives, ward members, representatives of several Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), NGO partners, and members of the Society for Integrated Rural Improvement (SIRI), reflecting strong community participation and support for sustainable agricultural development. Dr. Brajendra and Dr. Basavaraj K. conducted an interactive training session for farmers on the importance of soil test-based fertilizer recommendations. The scientists explained the benefits of balanced nutrient application based on soil health status, emphasizing efficient fertilizer use, reduction in cultivation costs, improved crop productivity, and maintenance of long-term soil fertility. Farmers were encouraged to adopt scientific nutrient management practices to enhance resource-use efficiency and environmental sustainability.
As part of the programme, 80 kg of seed of DRR Dhan 90 was distributed to 50 farmers for demonstration and adoption. DRR Dhan 90, developed by Dr. C. N. Neeraja and team, released in 2025, is a low soil nitrogen-tolerant rice variety suited for cultivation with only 50% of the recommended nitrogen fertilizer dose, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option for farmers. The variety possesses acceptable grain and cooking quality with short bold grains and is recommended for cultivation in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka (Zone VII). DRR Dhan 90 also exhibits moderate resistance to major rice diseases and insect pests, including leaf blast, neck blast, sheath rot, plant hoppers, stem borer, and whorl maggot, contributing to stable yields under field conditions.
The participating farmers showed keen interest in the technology and appreciated the practical guidance on nutrient management and improved rice varieties. The programme highlighted the importance of integrating soil health-based fertilizer management with nutrient-efficient rice varieties to achieve sustainable and profitable rice production. The Khet Bachao Abhiyan continues to serve as an effective platform for transferring research-based technologies from laboratory to land, thereby strengthening farmers' resilience and promoting sustainable agricultural development.
