ICAR–RCER, Patna Celebrates World Soil Day

The ICAR–Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna celebrated World Soil Day by organizing scientific and farmer-oriented activities aimed at raising awareness on soil health and sustainable agricultural practices.

On this occasion, the Director, ICAR–RCER, Patna, highlighted the pressing issues of soil degradation, declining organic matter, and nutrient imbalances across eastern India. He stressed that scientific interventions, coupled with greater farmer awareness, are essential to reverse land degradation and enhance agricultural productivity.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyaya, Head, DLWM Division, outlined various strategies for soil conservation, integrated nutrient management, carbon sequestration, and the use of digital tools for soil monitoring. He also emphasized the significance of conservation agriculture in improving soil structure and increasing water-use efficiency.

A dedicated farmers’ interaction session was organized as part of the programme. Demonstrations on soil sampling and testing techniques were conducted to help farmers better understand soil health diagnostics. Participants actively discussed practical approaches to enhance soil fertility, such as green manuring, residue recycling, and micro-irrigation.

The event concluded with a collective call to adopt sustainable soil management practices to ensure long-term productivity, ecological balance, and resilient agricultural systems in the region. The programme formally came to an end with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Kirti Saurabh, Scientist.