The ICAR–Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute (ICAR-MGIFRI) organized a farmer awareness programme for sustainable mango and litchi cultivation on October 27, 2026. The programme also focused on promoting the effective utilization of locally available organic resources and intercropping.
On October 27, 2026, the ICAR–Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute (ICAR-MGIFRI), Motihari, Bihar, under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) hosted a farmer awareness and field interaction programme as part of Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026 at Kothia Hariram village in Mehsi Block of East Champaran. A total of 29 farmers and participants attended the programme.
The programme focused not only on promoting balanced fertilisation, soil health management, nutrient recycling, and sustainable management of mango and litchi orchards but also emphasized the effective utilization of locally available organic resources, including crop residues, fallen leaves, farmyard manure, and compost. Dr. Amol K. Jadhav, Scientist at ICAR-MGIFRI, led the event.
Dr. Jadhav explained that recycling these materials can improve soil organic matter, support better soil structure and nutrient availability, and reduce dependence on external inputs. He also highlighted the importance of combining organic resources with balanced mineral fertilization for sustainable mango and litchi cultivation.
Participating farmers shared their experiences and challenges concerning fertiliser application, orchard soil health, organic resource management, and intercropping. The interactive discussions helped raise awareness of practical, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable approaches to improving the productivity and profitability of fruit-based farming systems.
The programme also highlighted the potential of intercropping and crop diversification in fruit orchards to improve land-use efficiency and create supplementary income opportunities. Farmers were encouraged to consider suitable intercrops, particularly legumes and other location-specific crops, according to orchard age, canopy coverage, seasonal moisture availability, and crop compatibility.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
