The Business Bytes
Bamnipal, June 20, 2024 (TBB Bureau): A collaborative effort between Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) and Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) bore fruit as a two-day ‘Soil Testing Programme’ concluded at the Bamnipal Housing Complex of Tata Steel on Wednesday.
The event, held in conjunction with the ‘World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought’ celebrations, aimed to enlighten farmers about the crucial role soil health plays in agriculture and sustainable soil management practices. A highlight of the programme was the utilization of a ‘Mobile Soil Testing Van’ to conduct on-the-spot analyses, facilitating immediate feedback for farmers.
A total of 110 farmers from the Danagadi and Harichandanpur blocks of the Bamnipal region actively participated in the programme. Over the two days, soil health testing was carried out on 110 samples sourced from more than 500 acres of farmland. Farmers received detailed reports on soil health, providing insights into nutrient deficiencies and necessary fertilization measures to optimize soil productivity.
The emphasis of the programme lay in educating farmers on evaluating critical soil health parameters including phosphorus (P), potassium (K), pH levels, soil salinity (EC), and organic carbon content. Interactive sessions, field inspections, and demonstrations on soil sampling methods enriched the learning experience for participants. Additionally, an awareness session on the advantages of adopting bio-fertilizers was conducted, broadening farmers’ understanding of sustainable agricultural practices.
The ‘Mobile Soil Testing Van’ provided by IFFCO, equipped with an in-built laboratory, proved instrumental in delivering real-time analyses and facilitating hands-on learning for farmers. The programme culminated in the distribution of soil health cards among participants, empowering them with essential information for informed decision-making in farming practices.
The initiative exemplifies Tata Steel Foundation’s commitment to promoting sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices in the region. By enhancing farmers’ knowledge and productivity, collaborative endeavours like these contribute to strengthening livelihoods and fostering resilience against environmental challenges.
