Karnataka’s agriculture is at risk as over half of the state’s farmland suffers from low soil organic carbon (SOC) levels, jeopardizing crop productivity and environmental health. Recent data highlights that many areas, particularly in north and central Karnataka, are experiencing diminished crop yields and quality due to this issue.
- SOC Importance: Soil organic carbon is crucial for soil health, affecting water retention, nutrient availability, and soil erosion prevention. Optimal SOC levels are essential for sustainable agriculture.
- Decline Factors: The drop in SOC is largely attributed to excessive use of chemical fertilizers and a reduction in organic manure application. Karnataka’s high fertilizer consumption, coupled with decreasing livestock numbers, exacerbates soil degradation.
- Regional Impact: Districts like Kolar show severe SOC decline, while areas with traditional farming practices, such as Dakshina Kannada, fare better. Black soil regions in northern Karnataka are particularly affected, impacting crops like cotton and groundnuts.
- Expert Recommendations: To combat the crisis, experts advocate integrating organic and inorganic fertilizers, and employing practices such as green manure, vermicompost, and mulching. However, challenges include the high cost and logistical issues associated with these methods.
- Government Response: The Karnataka Agriculture Department has launched a significant soil testing and management plan, analyzing 500,000 soil samples across 30,000 hectares. A new mobile app will provide farmers with real-time soil test results and recommendations to improve SOC levels.
This crisis underscores the urgent need for balanced agricultural practices to ensure both crop productivity and environmental sustainability.