Under the Intensive Awareness Campaign for Adoption of Science-Based Nutrient and Other Input Management, a training-cum-awareness programme was organized at Kahu Koyali village, Taluka Khed, District Pune. The programme aimed to promote the judicious and balanced application of fertilizers and to educate farmers on reducing excessive fertilizer use. The programme was conducted by Dr. Karuppaiah, Sr. Scientist (Entomology), Mrs. Ashwini Benke, Scientist (Genetics) and Dr. Yogesh Khade, Sr. Scientist (Hort.). A total of 23 (20 Male +3 Female) participants attended the programme.

The programme encompassed comprehensive field visits to onion crops being shade-cured, providing participants with practical exposure to on-the-ground production and post-harvest management practices. During these sessions, the team disseminated key technologies developed by ICAR-Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research (ICAR-DOGR), clearly outlining their role in enhancing productivity, quality, and storage life of onion and garlic.

The team emphasized on the critical importance of judicious fertilizer use, cautioning against the indiscriminate application of chemical inputs, the health-hazardous effects of chemical fertilizers etc. They elaborated on the detrimental consequences of excessive fertilizer use, including soil degradation, disruption of soil microbial balance, increased vulnerability to pests and diseases, potential health risks, and broader environmental concerns.

To promote sustainable nutrient management, the team advocated the adoption of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM), emphasizing a balanced approach that integrates mineral fertilizers with organic amendments, green manuring, and bio-stimulants. This strategy was highlighted as essential for improving nutrient use efficiency, restoring soil biological activity, and sustaining long-term soil health.

Furthermore, the team highlighted that excessive fertilizer application, particularly nitrogen, can significantly causes the bulb rotting during storage, leading to substantial post-harvest losses due to sprouting. In response, we stressed the importance of balanced nitrogen management, split application of nitrogen, and demonstrated scientifically validated pre- and post-harvest practices developed by ICAR-DOGR. These practices are crucial for minimizing storage losses and ensuring better shelf life and marketability of onion and garlic produce.