A three-day free soil test programme for farmers, organised by the Soil Resource Development Institute, concluded here on Wednesday.

Padma, a vehicle mounted mobile laboratory, provided the service on the premises of Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU).

PSTU Vice-chancellor Prof Dr. Wahid-uz-Zaman opened the programme as chief guest.

Dr Sultan Ahmed, Deen of Agriculture Department and Senior

Scientist Sikder Rafiquzzaman were special guests at the inaugural function.

Prof Nizam Uddin. Chaimran of Soil Science Department at PSTU told this correspondent that most of the farmers do not know the condition of soil of their lands. They apply chemical fertiliser at random, which reduced soil fertility and its natural ingredients.

Under the programme, the scientists test oil samples brought by farmers and also prescribe fertiliser.

Prof Nizam Uddin said the free soil test programme will be organised twice a year.