What is the big cause of worry for farmers in Uttar Pradesh's Bundelkhand region?
Hamirpur: The level of organic carbon in the fertile soil of Uttar Pradesh's Bundelkhand region has remained in the 'red zone' for the past decade, adversely affecting crop productivity. Agricultural scientists and the Agriculture Department have termed this a matter of serious concern for farmers and the agricultural sector.
Deputy Director of Agriculture, Dr. Pramod Kumar, stated on Monday that organic carbon is considered 'food for the soil' and plays a crucial role in plant growth and the maintenance of soil fertility. He noted that a deficiency of organic carbon in the soil weakens plants, reduces leaf greenness, and compromises both crop quality and yield.
Excessive use of chemical fertilizers
He explained that the excessive use of chemical fertilizers in the Bundelkhand region is also leading to a depletion of essential elements like nitrogen and phosphorus. However, the most alarming situation concerns organic carbon, the levels of which are continuously declining.
In response, the government has launched the 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' (Save the Farm Campaign) alongside initiatives for natural farming, organic farming, and various other agricultural schemes.
Bundelkhand region records highest usage of Urea and DAP fertilizers
Dr. Kumar stated that the Bundelkhand region records the highest usage of Urea and DAP fertilizers in the entire state. A continuous rise in the demand for chemical fertilizers is being observed in Hamirpur district. Last year, a four-member team from Lucknow visited the district to assess the situation and emphasized the need to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers.
Future of farmers could be jeopardized
He warned that if organic carbon levels continue to decline at this rate, the future of farmers could be jeopardized. To address this, the 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' is being conducted to raise awareness among farmers.
Status of organic carbon is the most concerning issue
Dr. Anshu Singh, Superintendent of the Soil Testing Laboratory, explained that various soil elements are analyzed at the facility. Test results have revealed that the status of organic carbon is the most concerning issue, signaling a serious threat to agriculture.
Serious consequences could follow
Dr. Rajiv Singh, Head and Senior Scientist at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, stated that the organic carbon level in the soil should be at least 0.8 percent, whereas in many places, it has dropped to as low as 0.2 percent. He warned that if farmers do not become aware in time, serious consequences could follow.
He mentioned that under the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ (Save the Farm Campaign)—conducted from June 5 to June 21—farmers are being educated on maintaining soil fertility, utilizing organic matter, and reducing their reliance on chemical fertilizers.