Ranit Kr. Singh , Aizawl - The Mizoram government has officially rolled out the Central Government’s "Khet Bachao Abhiyan" initiative to tackle soil degradation, advocate for soil-test-based fertilizer application, and promote sustainable natural farming. Launched on Monday by state Governor Vijay Kumar Singh at the Lok Bhavan, the month-long nationwide campaign is designed to safeguard the environment and improve agricultural output. Spearheaded locally by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, the event was well-attended by key regional stakeholders, including state Agriculture Minister P C Vanlalruata and Central Agricultural University Vice Chancellor Anupam Mishra.

During the inauguration, Governor Singh voiced deep concerns over how the excessive, unscientific use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to maximize crop yields has severely damaged land health and human well-being. He stressed that regular soil testing remains essential for identifying specific nutrient deficiencies, ensuring crops receive well-balanced nutrition rather than an overreliance on chemical inputs like urea. Singh highlighted that maintaining soil nutrient equilibrium is uniquely challenging in Mizoram due to the widespread practice of traditional jhum (slash-and-burn) cultivation on the state's steep, hilly slopes.

To ensure the initiative successfully reaches local communities, agricultural scientists, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) officials, and state department representatives will conduct extensive field demonstrations, seminars, and training modules throughout June. The campaign will train farmers in modern scientific techniques, strengthen essential market linkages, and promote the adoption of organic nutrient sources, green manuring, and bio-fertilizers. Ultimately, officials noted that these coordinated efforts aim to help Mizoram achieve food self-sufficiency, minimize energy consumption in grain production, and enable farmers to seamlessly access targeted central government welfare benefits.