KVK Nicobar Promotes Green Leaf Manuring for Sustainable Soil Health under Khet Bachao Abhiyan

19 June 2026, Nicobar Islands

As part of the nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Nicobar, under ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, organized an awareness programme on the "Importance and Use of Green Leaf Manure for Improving Soil Fertility" at Munak Village, Nancowry. A similar programme was also conducted at Campbell Bay in Great Nicobar to promote sustainable soil fertility management among farmers.

The programme aimed to create awareness on the role of green leaf manuring in enhancing soil fertility, improving soil organic matter, stimulating beneficial microbial activity, increasing moisture retention, and ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability. During the technical session, the Subject Matter Specialist (SMS) of ICAR-KVK Nicobar explained the benefits of incorporating green leaf manure into farming systems, highlighting its contribution to improved soil structure, enhanced nutrient availability, and reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers.

Farmers were also introduced to locally available green leaf resources and their appropriate methods of application for achieving better crop growth and higher productivity. An interactive discussion followed, during which participants shared their field experiences and sought guidance on soil health management and organic farming practices. The experts addressed the queries with practical recommendations suited to the local agro-ecological conditions of the Nicobar Islands.

The participating farmers appreciated the initiative and expressed their willingness to adopt green leaf manuring practices to improve soil health, enhance crop productivity, and promote environmentally sustainable agriculture.

The programme was coordinated by Dr Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR-CIARI, Sri Vijayapuram, under the ongoing Khet Bachao Abhiyan, which continues to strengthen farmers' knowledge and adoption of eco-friendly soil management practices across the Nicobar Islands.

A total of 30 farmers and farm women actively participated in the awareness programme.

(Source: ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands)