India now produces 330 million tonnes of food grains annually, contributing to global food trade and earning $50 billion in exports, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Tuesday. Speaking at the ‘Global Soils Conference 2024’ via videoconference, Chouhan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security.
However, the minister raised concerns about the increasing strain on soil health caused by excessive use of chemical fertilizers, natural resource exploitation, and unstable weather patterns. “India’s soil faces a major health crisis. Studies indicate that 30% of soil has degraded due to erosion, salinity, and pollution,” Chouhan warned.
Addressing India’s Soil Health Crisis
To combat soil degradation, the government has implemented multiple initiatives. The Soil Health Card scheme, launched in 2015, has distributed over 220 million cards to farmers, guiding them to maintain soil fertility.
Under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana-Per Drop More Crop,’ efforts have focused on efficient water usage, reducing wastage, and minimizing peak nutrient residues. Integrated nutrient and water management methods, such as micro-irrigation and crop diversification, are also being promoted.
Future Initiatives to Strengthen Agriculture
Chouhan announced plans for a ‘Modern Agriculture Chaupal,’ where scientists will engage with farmers to provide solutions and share knowledge. He emphasized the importance of innovative approaches like agroforestry, erosion control, and water storage to restore soil fertility.
Private and NGO-led extension services are also bringing advanced agricultural technologies to farmers. “We must act quickly to address India’s soil health crisis to ensure sustainable agriculture and secure livelihoods,” Chouhan added.
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