Soil Conservation - 2 | Agriculture Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Importance of Soil Conservation

Soil conservation is of utmost importance for the following reasons:

• Soils are fundamental for sustaining life on Earth, providing the growth medium for plants, which serve as a crucial food source for both humans and animals. Additionally, soils serve as the primary habitat for various organisms.
• Soils facilitate water percolation and help maintain groundwater levels. Without soils, recharging groundwater would be challenging, potentially leading to water scarcity.
• Soils act as a natural filtration system for surface water. They effectively absorb impurities, leaving behind clean and pure water for various uses.
• Soils play a significant role in regulating the Earth's climate. They are the second-largest carbon sink, following the oceans. Carbon dioxide is stored in the soil as a result of photosynthesis carried out by plants. The global soil carbon pool is estimated to be around 2500 billion tonnes.
• Soils have the ability to absorb excess rainfall, making them vital in flood mitigation.
• Highly fertile soils, such as the alluvial soils of the Indo-Ganga Plains and coastal deltaic regions, support substantial populations and are ideal for agriculture. Furthermore, soils underpin the development of infrastructure and economic growth, as all structures rely on a solid foundation of soil.
• Soil degradation and acidification are irreversible processes; once an inch of soil is lost, it cannot be recovered. Therefore, preserving and conserving soils is crucial to prevent long-term damage to this invaluable resource.

Soil Conservation Schemes in India

Here are some significant soil conservation initiatives implemented by the Indian government:

• NABARD Loan - Soil & Water Conservation Scheme under RIDF: The Government of India introduced the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) under the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) in 1995-96. This scheme aimed to offer financial assistance to farmers to encourage the adoption of soil-friendly agricultural practices, thereby promoting sustainable development through innovative soil conservation methods.
• Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana: Initiated by the Indian Union Government in 2007, this national program focuses on comprehensive and sustainable growth in agriculture and related sectors. Soil erosion has been identified as a major factor contributing to reduced soil fertility and low crop productivity. To address this issue, the government placed significant emphasis on various soil conservation methods in agricultural lands. Funds were allocated to rural local bodies to undertake soil conservation projects in their respective regions. Objectives of this project include enhancing soil fertility, preventing topsoil erosion, and employing innovative approaches to combat terrestrial ecosystem degradation.
• Watershed Development Project in Shifting Cultivation Areas: Launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Affairs in 1995, this project aimed to combat land degradation resulting from extensive shifting or jhum cultivation. It focused on the holistic development of jhum cultivation areas on a watershed basis. Scientific expertise was employed to rehabilitate lands affected by jhum cultivation and uplift the socio-economic status of tribal communities. The project aimed to encourage these communities to transition to settled agriculture.
• Soil Health Card Scheme: In 2015, the government introduced the Soil Health Card Scheme, which leverages technology and engages farmers in a participatory approach to promote soil conservation. Prior to this initiative, farmers lacked information about the condition of their soils, including factors like soil moisture content and nutrient deficiencies. Under this scheme, registered farmers receive a soil health card, providing them with detailed information about their soil's health. The card also offers recommendations for suitable crops and suggests amendments to improve soil health. This project has been instrumental in raising awareness among farmers about their land's health and the necessary steps to enhance soil quality.

Conclusion 

Soil erosion is a critical environmental issue with far-reaching consequences, including irreversible desertification and land acidification, which pose significant threats to the existence of all life forms. To address these challenges, it is crucial to proactively implement soil conservation techniques and prevent the degradation of the earth's uppermost soil layer. India has set an ambitious goal of restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. Achieving this target demands meticulous planning, effective coordination, and the active involvement of the populace.