Syllabus: GS3/Agriculture
Context
- Recently, researchers from the Central University of Rajasthan (CUoR) have successfully grown wheat on desert land using an innovative ‘soilification technology’ powered by an indigenous bioformulation.
About Desertification
- Desertification is defined as land degradation in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas due to various factors including climatic variations and human activities.
- According to the Space Applications Centre of ISRO, about 30% of India’s total geographical area suffers from degradation, with nearly 25% affected by desertification.
Extent of the Problem
- Nearly 96.40 million hectares of land in India are degraded (Space Applications Centre, ISRO, 2021).
- Drylands in Rajasthan contribute to over 23% of desertified areas, making it a hotspot for urgent interventions.
- India aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030 (India’s National Action Programme to Combat Desertification, MoEFCC).
Breakthroughs in Farming Technology
- Soilification Technology in Rajasthan: It lies in modifying desert sand into fertile soil using polymers and bioformulations. It involves:
- cross-linking desert sand particles using eco-friendly polymers;
- enhancing water retention capacity of sandy soil;
- stimulating microbial activity through indigenous bioformulations;
- creating a soil-like structure that supports crop growth;
- Minimising the spread of desertification, particularly in vulnerable zones like western Rajasthan’s Thar Desert;
- Baramati Experiment in Maharashtra: It was based on AI and Precision Farming, supported by Microsoft and Oxford University, that uses AI-driven tools to optimize irrigation, pest control, and crop planning.
- Farmers reported up to 40% increase in yield;
- Reduced input costs and water usage;
- Real-time data helps manage climate risks.
Other Farming Technology in Combating Desertification
- Precision Agriculture: Use of drones, sensors, and GIS to monitor soil moisture and nutrient levels.
- Micro-Irrigation Systems: Drip and sprinkler irrigation reduce water wastage and salinity.
- Soil Conservation Technologies: Zero-tillage, contour bunding, and mulching help retain soil moisture.
- Agroforestry: Integration of trees with crops prevents erosion and enhances soil carbon sequestration.
- Remote Sensing & Satellite Monitoring: ISRO’s Desertification Atlas provides data for planning at national and state levels.
- Climate-Smart Farming: Adoption of drought-resistant crop varieties (e.g., millets) promoted under the International Year of Millets 2023 initiative.
- Natural Farming: It avoids chemical fertilizers and pesticides, restores soil health and water permeability, and promotes climate-resilient agriculture.
| Government Initiatives to Combat Desertification – National Action Plan on Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought: It aligns with UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) commitments. 1. Bonn Challenge Pledge: Restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. – Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): It promotes efficient water use. – National Afforestation Programme & Green India Mission: These aim to expand vegetative cover. – Soil Health Card Scheme: It encourages balanced fertilizer use. – National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): It fosters climate-resilient farming. – Technology Development and Transfer Programme: Desert Soilification Technology is actively promoted and scale-up under it, with the aim to: 1. Reclaim degraded land in desert-prone regions; 2. Support climate-resilient agriculture; 3. Reduce water usage in farming; 4. Enable sustainable livelihoods for rural communities. |
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