Under the nationwide “Khet Bachao Abhiyan” (Save the Farm Campaign) launched by the Hon'ble Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development during 23 October to 30 November 2026, a scientific team comprising Dr. Shailendra Gadage, Dr. Hem Raj Bhandari, Senior Scientist and Dr. Bhushan Bibwe, Senior Scientist, ICAR-Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research (DOGR), Pune, visited the APMC Market, Khed. The APMC Market, being an important platform and participatory model connecting farmers, agricultural traders, agri-entrepreneurs, and retailers from Khed Taluk and nearby villages, was selected for dissemination of the campaign messages. Total 32 farmers (Male 24, Female 8), agri-traders, agri-entrepreneurs, and retailers benefitted from the programme. Mr. Dhandre and Mr. Gopale, officials of the APMC Market Committee, introduced the scientific team to the participants.

During the interaction, the scientific team explained the objectives of the campaign and highlighted the importance of balanced and judicious use of fertilizers, climate-resilient farming practices, weather-based agricultural advisories, and improved access to mechanization and government schemes. Participants were sensitized on soil test-based nutrient management, efficient use of agricultural inputs, and adoption of sustainable farming practices. The discussions also focused on location-specific advisories related to crop selection, crop diversification, risk mitigation, and suitable alternatives under conditions of water scarcity and climatic uncertainties. Various technologies developed by ICAR-DOGR for improved onion production, crop management, and productivity enhancement were presented during the programme.