Soil,
which is often forgotten under our feet, is the foundation of agricultural sustainability. The health of soil has a direct impact on agriculture production, water quality and ecosystem resilience.
In an age of growing environmental problems and food security concerns, promoting soil health is crucial for ensuring environmentally friendly farming methods.
One of the most effective techniques for improving soil health is using
bio-resources
These natural materials obtained from organic sources have great potential for improving soil structure, nutrient retention and microbial activity.
Let's look at the procedures used to create some of these bio-resources:
Biochar:
Biochar is a stable carbon-rich charcoal made by pyrolyzing organic material, such as crop remainders, wood shavings or animal dung, in a low-oxygen environment. The pyrolysis process involves heating biomass at temperatures ranging from 500°C to 560°C. Biochar is sponge like material which can be added to soil to increase its structure, ability to hold water, and nutrient absorption capability.
BioPROM:
Phosphate Rich Organic Manure (PROM) is a bio-resource enhanced with phosphorus, an important nutrient required for healthy plant growth. It is produced through mixing organic slurry cake, Rock Phosphate (RF) & Liquid Organic Fertilizer. The mixture breaks down over several weeks to months, promoting microbial activity and offering a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers.
City Compost:
Organic waste, such as food waste, yard trimmings and manure, can be decomposed to produce nutrient-rich city compost. This method involves collecting organic waste, shredding it into smaller pieces and creating aerobic conditions for decomposition. Microorganisms break down organic materials, turning it into a humus-like material that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other micronutrients. City compost can be used in agricultural fields to improve soil fertility, structure, and water retention.
Jeevamrut Units:
Jeevamrut, an organic fertilizer for soil, is made from locally available ingredients including cow dung, cow urine (preferably Desi cow's), jaggery, gram flour and soil. The process involves combining these components in precise amounts and allowing them to ferment for 5 to 6 days. Beneficial microorganisms develop during fermentation, increasing the mixture with bacteria, fungus, and other germs. When applied to agricultural fields, Jeevamrut increases soil microbial diversity, promotes nutrient cycling, and reduces plant diseases.
LHWRF, in partnership with GIZ & financial assistance from BMZ and MAVIM, has been advocating for the utilization of these bio resources across six districts in Maharashtra (namely Ahmednagar, Aurangabad, Dhule, Nagpur, Wardha, and Sindhudurg) with the objective of promoting natural farming to ensure food security.
The bio resource models established operate on a business model approach, aiming to gradually expand the adoption of natural farming practices in the region. The implementation process involves identifying potential clusters in various agro-climatic zones and engaging stakeholders to drive project activities in a business-oriented manner
Alka Shinde,
a farmer from Adhalgaon, Shrigonda, Ahmednagar planted bean crops in her fields in June and fertilized them with city compost in July.
Two months later, during the harvest season, the crops showed exceptional quality and were offered good market prices. Encouraged by this success, Alka began using city compost on other crops such as cotton, lemons, pigeon peas and maize.
The maize crops, in particular, grew rapidly, showing the positive impact of the city compost on soil health and the growth of plants. Alka also used city compost to 175 lemon plants, bringing in a significant income of 1.5 lakhs from the lemon yield alone.
The success story of Alka Shinde highlights the need for increased adoption and promotion of bio- resources in agricultural practices. As we face challenges related to sustainability and food security, investing in soil health through natural solutions appears as an achievable opportunity for agricultural growth and environmental responsibility.
Built with Shorthand