Central Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare State Minister Shri Ram Nath Thakur took part in an ICAR‑NINFET organised event in Subhash Nagar, Swaroopnagar block, Uttar 24 Pargana district, West Bengal, under the Khet Bachao campaign running from 22 October to 30 November 2026
The programme highlighted the Government of India’s commitment to protecting agricultural land, restoring soil health and promoting natural farming as a sustainable approach for agriculture
Emphasis on soil conservation
Shri Thakur addressed the gathering, urging adoption of natural farming and minimal use of chemical fertilizers to maintain soil health. He described natural farming as a key method to preserve soil fertility, improve soil health and promote ecological balance
He also encouraged farmers to adopt climate‑smart agricultural practices, scientific innovations and modern technologies to ensure long‑term productivity and sustainability
Assistance and guidance
Shri Thakur urged farmers to use fertilizers judiciously, improve nutrient use efficiency and make effective use of the Soil Health Card to maintain soil fertility. He underscored the role of Agricultural Science Centres (KVKs) in providing technical guidance, practical demonstrations and extension services to support natural and sustainable farming methods
The central minister appealed to farmers to revert to traditional practices, including the use of organic fertilizers and biopesticides, to boost natural farming and obtain healthy, quality produce
Core message of the campaign
The event reiterated the core message of the Khet Bachao campaign being run nationwide from 22 October to 30 November 2026 for rabi crops: healthy soil is the foundation of healthy crops, sustainable agriculture and farmer prosperity. Promoting natural farming, conserving soil fertility and adopting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices are essential for protecting agricultural resources and ensuring long‑term food and livelihood security