Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Chouhan Launches ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’, Calls for Sustainable Farming and Soil Conservation

Raisen (Madhya Pradesh), June 1: Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday inaugurated the nationwide ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ from Ramasiya village in Madhya Pradesh’s Raisen district, emphasizing the need to safeguard soil health for the future of Indian agriculture.

The month-long campaign, scheduled from June 1 to June 30, aims to encourage farmers across the country to adopt scientific farming methods, balanced fertilizer application, natural farming practices, and water conservation measures. The initiative seeks to improve agricultural productivity while preserving the long-term fertility of farmland.

Addressing farmers during the launch event, Chouhan highlighted that healthy soil forms the foundation of a strong agricultural economy. He urged cultivators to reduce excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides and instead make farming decisions based on soil testing and scientific recommendations.

The minister said agricultural experts, scientists, Krishi Vigyan Kendra teams, and government officials will travel to villages nationwide under the campaign to spread awareness about soil management, nutrient balance, modern cultivation techniques, and sustainable farming practices. Farmers will also receive guidance on efficient water use and advanced agricultural technologies.

A major focus of the campaign will be the promotion of Soil Health Cards, enabling farmers to understand the nutrient status of their land and apply fertilizers accordingly. According to Chouhan, this approach can lower input costs, improve crop yields, and maintain soil productivity over the years.

The Union Minister noted that the government’s support through fertilizer subsidies should be accompanied by responsible usage. He stressed that overuse of chemical inputs can negatively impact soil quality and reduce the presence of beneficial microorganisms essential for crop growth.

To improve farm profitability, demonstration programmes on crops such as soybean, paddy, and pulses will be organized. Farmers will be trained in the use of improved seed varieties, modern sowing methods, laser land levelling, and water-saving cultivation practices. Regular capacity-building programmes will also be conducted with the assistance of agricultural institutions and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

Chouhan further said that women’s empowerment will be integrated into the campaign through Self-Help Groups. Women will be encouraged to participate in income-generating activities, receive skill-based training, and access financial support for self-employment ventures.

Highlighting the importance of youth participation in rural development, he said efforts would be made to expand opportunities related to skill development, career guidance, and entrepreneurship in villages. He added that rural progress extends beyond infrastructure and must include employment generation and economic self-reliance.

The minister expressed confidence that the campaign would evolve into a nationwide public movement with active participation from farmers, women, youth, scientists, and local communities. He instructed officials to maintain regular interaction with farmers and ensure that technical support reaches the grassroots level.

Chouhan also stressed the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations, stating that sustainable agriculture requires responsible management of soil and land resources. As part of the initiative, awareness programmes will be conducted on identifying counterfeit fertilizers and pesticides, selecting suitable crops and seed varieties, seed treatment techniques, and the use of green manure to improve soil health.

The event witnessed participation from farmers, agricultural scientists, public representatives, and government officials. Nutrition kits were also distributed to malnourished children during the programme.

Keywords: Khet Bachao Abhiyan, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Soil Health Card, Sustainable Agriculture, Natural Farming, Farmers Welfare, Agriculture Ministry, Raisen, Madhya Pradesh, Soil Conservation, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Indian Agriculture.