ICAR-CRIDA organized on balanced fertilization on May 19, 2026, at Chowderpally village in Yacharam Mandal of Rangareddy district, Telangana, under the Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav (MGMG) programme.

Around 116 farmers from Chowderpally and Yacharam villages actively participated in the event. Dr. D.B.V. Ramana, Principal Scientist, welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of promoting sustainable nutrient management practices, emphasized the need for soil test-based balanced fertilization and cautioned farmers against the excessive use of urea, noting its adverse effects on soil health, crop productivity, and input costs. Further elaborated on the benefits of biofertilizers in reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers and maintaining long-term soil fertility, and demonstrated seed treatment techniques using biofertilizers.

Farmers were also advised to incorporate organic and green manures as part of integrated nutrient management for sustainable agriculture.

During the programme, participants were educated on proper soil sampling techniques, rainwater harvesting, and efficient use of available water through micro-irrigation systems. Awareness was also created on the importance of cleanliness (Swachhata) in preventing diseases and promoting community health.

Sri B. Srikanth Goud, Senior Technical Officer, demonstrated the correct method of soil sample collection from different fields for analysis. Informative literature on soil sampling techniques was distributed to support improved field-level nutrient management.

Sri Raju Keshamoni, Sarpanch of Chowderpally village, urged farmers to adopt the recommendations provided by ICAR-CRIDA scientists to prevent soil degradation and enhance agricultural productivity and income.