Experts Call for Sustainable Practices to Restore Punjab's Soil Health

Farmers and experts voiced concerns about soil degradation due to excessive chemical use and crop residue burning. An interactive session highlighted the necessity of preserving soil health for quality food production. Stakeholders discussed the role of compressed biogas projects in improving soil health and the importance of sustainable agricultural practices.

An interactive session held on Saturday brought farmers and experts together to address the critical issue of soil degradation in Punjab, attributed to overuse of chemicals and burning of crop residue. The session, focusing on 'soil biological health and cultivation of quality food according to international standards,' drew attention to the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices.

Experts pointed out that methane emissions, primarily from untreated biomass, are 20 times more harmful than carbon dioxide. The Punjab Agriculture University's report revealed that nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) fertilizer efficiency has drastically declined from producing 80 kg grains per kilogram of NPK in 1967 to just 16 kg in 2023.

Stakeholders also addressed the significance of compressed biogas (CBG) projects in enhancing soil health. Notably, Arvind Ahlawat of ICAR emphasized that these projects are a pivotal component in the Union government's 'Viksit Bharat' mission, aimed at boosting agricultural exports. Experts concluded that restoring soil biological health is essential for sustainable agriculture and reducing farmers' dependency on chemical fertilizers.

(With inputs from agencies.)