Khet Bachao Abhiyan: nationwide soil health drive from 22 October
Why in the news
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on 5 October 2026 that a nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan would start on 22 October 2026 to protect farm soil.
Key facts
- Khet Bachao Abhiyan: means Save the Farm campaign; nationwide launch on 22 October 2026.
- Focus areas: declining soil health, stubble and crop residue management, and unbalanced use of chemical fertilisers.
- Method: agricultural scientists and field staff will visit farms to guide farmers on soil testing, organic matter, avoiding stubble burning and balanced nutrients.
- Digital Agriculture Mission: more than 10.77 crore Farmer IDs generated; the target is 14 crore farmers.
- Crop insurance: participation up by 23%.
- Review meeting: the ministry’s first comprehensive monthly review, held at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi; monthly reviews with set targets will now be held for all departments.
About the announcement
The review was chaired by Shivraj Singh Chouhan with Union Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra. Programmes discussed included the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, the Digital Agriculture Mission, Kisan Credit Card, MSP-based procurement and disaster relief. The minister described soil conservation as a national priority linked to the nutritional security of future generations.
Exam angle
- Launch date of Khet Bachao Abhiyan: 22 October 2026.
- Digital Farmer IDs: over 10.77 crore, target 14 crore.
- Union Agriculture Secretary: Atish Chandra.