Soil Fertility Research Articles

Rock Phosphate and Biochar Effects on Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Soil Fertility in Southern Alberta Potato Field

The application of biochar soil amendment and rock phosphate fertilizer to the soil could lead to achieving net zero emissions and food security; however, the effectiveness of using biochar and rock phosphate in southern Alberta brown chernozemic soil is not yet assessed. In the first trial of this study, varying levels of urea (N), with varying levels of biochar (B) were applied. The same level of rock phosphate (RP) and triple super phosphate (TSP) were applied to compare efficiency of the two fertilizers. The second trial involved applying the same nutrients, but with higher levels than the first trial. The results indicated that the fertilizer application rates did not affect the growth and yield of potatoes because of the application rates of the fertilizer and fertility status of the soil, whereas in the second trial, TSP and RP treatments had the same growth and yield. Furthermore, the high application rate of nitrogen fertilizer and RP with or without biochar in the potato plot emitted high nitrous oxide gas emissions while the low application rate of nitrogen fertilizer and RP kept the carbon dioxide in the soil. Nevertheless, in the second experiment, the application of biochar and rock phosphate reduced nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide emissions. We observed high residual nitrogen and manganese nutrients after harvest in the plot treated to rock phosphate and biochar. Therefore, rock phosphate and biochar have the potential to increase food production and mitigate climate change.

A review of grass species yields and growth rates in Northland, New Zealand

ABSTRACT Pastoral farming is a major land use in New Zealand's Northland region, with 3,171 farm holdings and a total area of 637,500 hectares in 2022. The region's pasture grasses include temperate (C3) and subtropical and tropical (C4) grasses which support dairy, and sheep and beef production from grazing. In lowland areas, C3 and some annual C4 grasses are prevalent where cultivation occurs, while perennial C4 grasses dominate areas with low soil fertility and summer dry conditions. Grass-based pasture growth rates (kg dry matter/ha/day) from published and unpublished sources were assembled into the AgYields database. Among the resident and sown grasses tested in Kaitaia, Kaikohe, Whangarei and Dargaville, perennial ryegrass represented ∼60% of the total data points. Dominant kikuyu pastures represented 23% and the remaining species represented 17%. Rates of growth ranged from 5 to 120 kg DM/ha/day, being lowest in late autumn-winter and highest in early summer. Data were compared and agronomic traits (i.e. drought tolerance, biomass production and tillering) are discussed to assess species suitability for the Northland environment. The medium-term prospect suggests an urgent need to improve research into management of cocksfoot and tall fescue-based pastures to provide viable alternatives to overcome the decreasing persistence of perennial ryegrass.

Resource endowment and sustainable soil fertility management strategies in maize farming systems in northern Benin

IntroductionManaging soil fertility remains one of the major concerns of smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In order to understand the adoption potential of recommended practices to smallholders, this study aimed to characterize the resource availability, allocation and use patterns, and the soil fertility management practices in the maize farming system in northern Benin.MethodsA survey was conducted with 262 households randomly selected across three municipalities from three agro-ecological zones. Focus groups discussions and individual interviews were conducted with the household heads using an interview guide and a structured questionnaire respectively. The main data collected included (a) the socio-economic characteristics of households, (b) the main farm type and their characteristics and (c) the current soil fertility management strategies and the rationale behind.Results and discussionThe main soil fertility practices included the use of mineral fertilizer, manure, and crop residues application to plots. As a general trend, the rates of fertilizers applied by farmers [on average 132 ± 8.5 and 59 ± 5.8 kg ha−1 of Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium (NPK) and urea] were below those recommended or required to ensure optimal maize yields. Five farm types corresponding to different resource endowments or wealth classes were identified. The scarce resource farms owned by the majority of poorer farmers use only small amounts of manure and fertilizer in their fields. Qualitative analysis indicated that farms have different constraints and opportunities to adopt newly proposed soil fertility management recommendations.ConclusionExtension services and decision makers must target specific interventions for appropriation and sustainability of technologies to resource mostly the smallholder farmers.

Exploring the Synergy between Humic Acid Substances, Dehydrogenase Activity and Soil Fertility

The European Commission’s “Farm to Folk” (F2F) strategy recommends reducing fertilizers by at least 20% by 2030. In this aspect, the main goal of our study was to verify whether a 20 and even 40% reduction in nitrogen (N) fertilization rate would be sufficient to maintain soil fertility (expressed as dehydrogenase activity—DHA, humic acid substances—HA substances, E4/E6 ratio), and yields of wheat and rapeseed cultivated in strip-till technology. Two fields (10 ha each) were established for wheat and rapeseed cultivation, and soils (0–20 cm) were sampled before sowing and after harvesting. It was found that a 20% fertilization reduction does not adversely affect the biological activity expressed by DHA. Nevertheless, the reduction in nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates led to a slight decrease in the E4/E6 ratio, which could serve as a potential indicator of fertilization reduction. DHA, E4/E6 ratio and content of HA substances were also dependent on the crop. Following harvesting, both rapeseed and wheat exhibited a positive correlation between the E4/E6 ratio and the degree of fertilization rate (FR), as well as yield.

Nitrogen and phosphorus mineralization and their corresponding monetary values under long‐term integrated soil fertility management practices

Nitrogen and phosphorus mineralization and their corresponding monetary values under long‐term integrated soil fertility management practices

Drought stress tolerance and metabolomics of Medicago sativa induced by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DGL1

IntroductionThis study used Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DGL1 isolated from the arid sandy land of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau as the research strain and investigated the effects of DGL1 on the biomass, physiology, and metabolites of Medicago sativa under different intensities of drought stress to provide a high-quality bacterial source and a theoretical basis for the research and development of biological fertilizer suitable for arid areas.MethodsThe exopolysaccharides (EPS), 1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase (ACC), and phosphorus solubilizing capacity of DGL1 were determined. The effects of a DGL1 suspension on alfalfa biomass, physiological indexes, degree of peroxidation of cell membranes, and activity of antioxidant enzymes were determined after irrigating roots under drought stress. The effects on soil physicochemical properties were also evaluated, and metabolomics analysis was performed to explore the effect of DGL1 on the metabolites of alfalfa under drought stress.ResultsStrain DGL1 produced extracellular polysaccharide EPS and ACC deaminase and was capable of phosphorus solubilization. Treatment with DGL1 increased the biomass of alfalfa under different degrees of drought stress, significantly increased the activities of alfalfa antioxidant enzymes Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD), Peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), reduced the content of MDA and H2O2, and increased the content of quick-acting phosphorus, quick-acting potassium, ammonium nitrogen, and nitrate nitrogen in the soil, thus improving soil fertility. Through metabolomics analysis, DGL1 was shown to affect amino acid metabolic pathways, such as arginine, leucine, glutamate, and tyrosine, as well as the levels of energy-providing polysaccharides and lipids, in alfalfa under 15% PEG-6000 drought stress, enhancing alfalfa’s capacity to resist drought stress.DiscussionStrain DGL1 enhances the drought suitability of alfalfa and has the potential for dryland development as a biological agent.

Effect of rice hull biochar treatment on net ecosystem carbon budget and greenhouse gas emissions in Chinese cabbage cultivation on infertile soil

Biochar, with its potential to enhance soil fertility, sequester carbon, boost crop yields and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, offers a solution. Addressing the challenges posed by climate change is crucial for food security and agriculture. However, its widespread adoption in agriculture remains in its infancy. This study assessed the effects of rice hull biochar on cabbage production and greenhouse gas emissions, especially nitrous oxide (N2O). A trial, employing a randomized block design in triplicate was conducted from September 13 to November 23, 2022, where "Cheongomabi" cabbage was cultivated with N-P2O5-K2O fertilization at 32-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$-$$\\end{document}7.8-\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$-$$\\end{document}19.8 kg 10a−1. Additional fertilizer was applied twice post-sowing. The Biochar application rates were control = 0 ton ha−1, B1 = 1 ton ha−1, B3 = 3 ton ha−1, and B5 = 5 ton ha−1. The aboveground biomass of autumn cabbage harvested 82 days after sowing was 2.40–2.70 kg plant−1 in the control and biochar treatments (B1, B3, and B5), with no significant differences (p > 0.05). Cumulative CO2 emissions during cultivation varied across treatment groups, with initial and cumulative emissions of 10.40–17.94 g m−2 day−1 and 3.63–4.43 ton ha−1, respectively. N2O emissions decreased with higher biochar application: reductions of 2.9%, 25.4%, and 41.1% in the B1, B3, and B5 treatments, respectively, compared to the control. The biochar application had no significant impact on yield but curbed soil emissions, Net ecosystem carbon balance during cabbage cultivation ranged from 0.42 to 3.41 ton ha−1 for the B1, B3, and B5 treatments, respectively, compared to control. Overall, the study underscores biochar’s role in mitigating emissions and boosting soil carbon during cabbage cultivation in fall.

Decomposing Unit for Agricultural Waste

The decomposer unit is an essential part of the process that turns organic waste and raw materials into fertilizers, which makes a big difference in waste management and sustainable farming methods. This unit takes raw materials, mostly organic waste, and starts a sequence of actions to turn them into fertilizer that can be used. Organic matter breaks down chemically during decomposition, producing simpler chemicals that are high in potassium, phosphate, and nitrogen—three important nutrients. For the purpose of increasing soil fertility and fostering plant growth, these nutrients are essential. This process is optimized by the decomposer unit, which guarantees effective raw material usage and reduces waste

Contemporary Financial Nationalism in Theory and Practice

Abstract The 2008 global financial crisis and its aftermath provided fertile soil for criticism of and alternatives to the international liberal order, including the rise of financial nationalism. Contemporary financial nationalism is a view of the world that is nationalist in its motivation for political action, financial in its policy focus, and illiberal in its conception of political economy. At the same time, it is fundamentally shaped by its emergence from within the international liberal order, which both constrains the policy options of financial nationalists and provides opportunities for them to draw on transnational financial resources and institutions to advance nationalist causes. This article offers a conceptual analysis of contemporary financial nationalism that explores its fundamental characteristics, explains what is distinctive about it, delineates its four major policy subtypes, identifies the resources and capabilities required to successfully engage in it, and discusses the implications of doing so. It aids researchers in thinking about financial nationalism’s internal workings across different contexts, in understanding why it has lasted as long and spread as far as it has, in considering how it may evolve, and in contemplating how it can affect domestic and international political economies.

Linking phosphorus fertility to soil microbial diversity and network complexity in citrus orchards: Implications for sustainable agriculture

Continuous input of chemical fertilizers causes soil acidification, land degradation, and water eutrophication, but its impact on soil microbial communities and co-occurrence patterns of microboes is unclear. In this study, we evaluated the impact of chemical fertilizer on bacterial community diversity and ecological network at 75 citrus sites in a watershed where chemical fertilizer is continuously applied. In addition, 25 natural forest sites adjacent to citrus sites were used as references to compare the potential effects of land conversion from natural forests to citrus orchards on soil bacterial diversity and microbial network. The results showed that the cultivation of citrus results in soil phosphorus (P) accumulation, with significantly higher available and mineral-bound phosphate contents than those found in soils of natural forests. Citrus soil average soil available P was 73.2 mg/kg, which was 20 times higher than that in forest soils. As the P content accumulates, soil bacterial Shannon index linearly decreases from 7.06 to 5.93 and is significantly lower than that of adjacent natural forest soils (7.13). Low P fertility soils have higher microbial network complexity and stability, containing more microbial communities and tighter relationships between microbes compared to higher P fertility soils. Soil P content and soil pH regulates soil microbial network complexity and stability. In addition, soil bacterial community structure in soils of natural forests is significantly different from that in citrus soils, and the bacterial community structure in high P soils is different from that in medium and low P soils. Soil P fertility reduces the relative abundance of dominant communities including Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Gemmatimonadetes, and also changes the relative abundance of some functional microbial communities, such as some phosphorus cycling microorganisms, including Acetobacteraceae and Beijerinckiaceae. In conclusion, soil phosphate accumulation severely alters soil bacterial community diversity, complexity, stability, and functionality. This could have negative impacts on soil functional stability and the sustainability of citrus orchards.

Ca(H2PO4)2 and MgSO4 activated nitrogen-related bacteria and genes in thermophilic stage of compost

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Ca(H2PO4)2 and MgSO4 on the bacterial community and nitrogen metabolism genes in the aerobic composting of pig manure. The experimental treatments were set up as control (C), 1% Ca(H2PO4)2 + 2% MgSO4 (CaPM1), and 1.5% Ca(H2PO4)2 + 3% MgSO4 (CaPM2), which were used at the end of composting for potting trials. The results showed that Ca(H2PO4)2 and MgSO4 played an excellent role in retaining nitrogen and increasing the alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), and available potassium (AK) contents of the composts. Adding Ca(H2PO4)2 and MgSO4 changed the microbial community structure of the compost. The microorganisms associated with nitrogen retention were activated. The complexity of the microbial network was enhanced. Genetic prediction analysis showed that the addition of Ca(H2PO4)2 and MgSO4 reduced the accumulation of nitroso-nitrogen and the process of denitrification. At the same time, despite the reduction of genes related to nitrogen fixation, the conversion of ammonia to nitrogenous organic compounds was promoted and the stability of nitrogen was increased. Mantel test analysis showed that Ca(H2PO4)2 and MgSO4 can affect nitrogen transformation-related bacteria and thus indirectly affect nitrogen metabolism genes by influencing the temperature, pH, and organic matter (OM) of the compost and also directly affected nitrogen metabolism genes through PO43− and Mg2+. The pot experiment showed that composting with 1.5% Ca(H2PO4)2 + 3% MgSO4 produced the compost product that improved the growth yield and nutrient content of cilantro and increased the fertility of the soil. In conclusion, Ca(H2PO4)2 and MgSO4 reduces the loss of nitrogen from compost, activates nitrogen-related bacteria and genes in the thermophilic phase of composting, and improves the fertilizer efficiency of compost products.Key points• Ca(H2PO4)2 and MgSO4 reduced the nitrogen loss and improved the compost effect• Activated nitrogen-related bacteria and altered nitrogen metabolism genes• Improved the yield and quality of cilantro and fertility of soil

Restoration of the soil fertility under Cr(VI) and artificial drought condition by the utilization of plant growth-promoting Bacillus spp. SSAU2.

The study explores the potential of an indigenous halo-tolerant microbe identified as Bacillus spp. SSAU-2 in enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth for sustainable agricultural practices under the influence of multiple abiotic stresses such as Cr(VI), high salinity, and artificial drought condition. The study investigated various factors influencing IAA synthesis by SSAU-2, such as pH (5 to 11), salinity (10 to 50g/L), tryptophan concentration (0.5 to 1%), carbon (mannitol mand lactose), and nitrogen sources (peptone and tryptone). The highest IAA concentration was observed at pH 10 (1.695mg/ml) and pH 11 (0.782mg/ml). IAA synthesis was optimized at a salinity level of 30g/l, with lower and higher salinity levels resulting in decreased IAA concentrations. Notably, the presence of mannitol and lactose significantly augmented IAA synthesis, while glucose and sucrose had inhibitory effects. Furthermore, peptone and tryptone played a pivotal role in enhancing IAA synthesis, while ammonium chloride exerted an inhibitory influence. SSAU-2 showed a diverse array of capabilities, including the synthesis of gibberellins, extracellular polymeric substances, siderophores, and hydrogen cyanide along with nitrogen fixation and ammonia production. The microbe could efficiently tolerate 45% PEG-6000 concentration and effectively produce IAA in 15% PEG concentration. It could also tolerate high concentration of Cr(VI) and synthesize IAA even in 50ppm Cr(VI). The findings of this study provide valuable insights into harnessing the potential of indigenous microorganisms to promote plant growth, enhance soil fertility, and establish sustainable agricultural practices essential for restoring the health of ecosystems.

Impact of the Combination of Chemical and Organic Fertilization on the Growth and Yield of Pineapple under Two Shade Net Conditions

The use of organic sources presents itself as a viable alternative to mitigate the excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers in agricultural practices. However, in the realm of pineapple cultivation, research exploring the synergy between chemical and organic fertilizers remains scarce. In this context, the objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of the combination of chemical and organic fertilizers on the growth and yield of the MD-2 pineapple cultivar under two shade net conditions (installed 45 and 250 days after planting). The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design, with the main plot being the shade net conditions and the sub-plots the five fertilization treatments, which were applied 18 times via drip irrigation (control, 100% chemical fertilization, 50% reduced chemical fertilization, organic fertilization, and a combination of 50% chemical fertilization with organic fertilization). The results showed that the early installation of shade netting 45 days after planting decreases the growth and yield of pineapple; thus, the use of shade netting at this age is not recommended. Regarding fertilization, the combination of 50% chemical fertilization with organic fertilization showed similar growth and yield values compared to 100% conventional chemical fertilization under both shade net conditions. Furthermore, this combination presented similar nitrate and potassium values in the plant and did not negatively affect malic acid content. Therefore, the use of organic fertilizers in pineapple cultivation is a promising strategy to reduce the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and it could also improve soil fertility.

Soil Chemical Properties and Nutrient Dynamics under Different Legume-based Agroforestry Systems in Semi-arid Conditions of Haryana

Background: In order to support livelihoods, enhance food security, restore ecosystem services, and reduce pressure on forests, soil fertility can be improved by utilizing alternative land-use systems, such as agroforestry. Methods: The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of different agroforestry systems on soil chemical properties and nutrient availability (macro and micro) during different seasons in Hisar, Haryana. Different systems include Poplar (Populus deltoides), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus tereticornis), Melia (Melia composita), Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo) based agroforestry system (Cowpea-Wheat) and sole cropping of Cowpea-Wheat (as control). Soil samples were collected from 0-15 and 15-30 cm of soil depth during five seasons i.e., winter, spring, summer, rainy and autumn. Result: Soil EC, SOC and available macronutrients and micronutrients were significantly affected by the depth of sampling, systems and seasons while soil pH was not significantly affected by seasons. Lower soil pH and EC was observed from agroforestry systems as compared to sole cropping. Soil Organic Carbon, availability of N, P, K and S was significantly higher under tree based systems as compared to control. Maximum DTPA extractable Mn, Zn and Cu was observed under poplar based system while highest DTPA extractable Fe was observed under Melia based system during both the years. Significantly higher SOC and nutrient availability was observed during autumn, rainy and spring seasons as compared to winter and summer seasons, while reverse trend was observed for soil pH and EC among the seasons. Soil Organic Carbon, availability of macro and micronutrients decreased with increase in soil depth. Overall, the soil chemical properties and nutrient status of soil were comparatively better under tree based systems than sole cropping of Cowpea-Wheat.

Modeling with the controlling effects of inorganic fertilizers, earthworm population and soil fertility on agricultural crop production

Modeling with the controlling effects of inorganic fertilizers, earthworm population and soil fertility on agricultural crop production

Molecular identification and characterizations of rhizobacterial isolates collected from lentil rhizosphere of Indo-gangetic plains.

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are also known to colonize in the soil rhizosphere and prevent the development of other soil borne pathogens residing in the root surface. These microorganisms play a vital role in growth and development of the plant and also enhances the soil fertility by enriching the soil with different beneficial nutrients. This study was aimed at isolation of different rhizobacteria and their molecular characterization in search of efficient bacterial strains with multiple growth regulating activities. A total 36 bacteria were isolated from lentil root nodule as well as soil from different lentil growing fields with a view to screen/evaluate their plant growth promoting potential. Morphological characterization of isolated rhizobacterial candidates were done by observing the colonies on YEMA and nutrient agar media. Determination of CFU, Congo red test and gram staining tests were done to further screen them according to their morphology. All the isolates were then undergone molecular phylogenetic analysis using the partial sequences of the 16S rDNA. Based upon the Gram staining test, all the isolates were negative in gram reaction except six Bacillus isolates, PSB2 and AB3. Results of Ribosomal Database Project (RDP) and Basic Local Alignment Search Tool for Nucleotide Sequences (BLASTn) from 16S rDNA gene sequences showed that these isolates are genetically diverse. A total of 15 isolates of Rhizobium, 6 isolates of Bacillus, 3 isolates of Pseudomonas, 2 isolates of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria, 4 isolates of actinomycetes were identified by molecular sequencing of their 16S rDNA region and comparing them with the other isolates enlisted in the database of NCBI for the similarity percentage, query coverage. The purpose of the present study was to select native rhizosphere bacteria from the lentil nodule and soil of Lentil field and to evaluate their plant growth promoting potential as an alternative of chemical fertilizer for sustainable, environment friendly agriculture and assessment of their phylogenetic characterization.

Soil Amendment Combining Bentonite and Maize Straw Improves Soil Quality Cropped to Oat in a Semi-Arid Region

Soil amendments have been proposed as an effective way to enhance soil carbon stocks on degraded soils, particularly in dryland farming areas. Soil organic carbon (SOC) plays an important role in improving soil quality, and soil aggregates are known to be crucial in sequestering and protecting SOC. However, how aggregation and protection of SOC by aggregates respond to a single application of bentonite combined with maize straw remains unknown, especially in the sandy soil of a semi-arid region. A three-year field experiment with four treatments [no amendment (CK), maize straw amendment addition only (T1, 6 Mg ha–1), bentonite amendment addition only (T2, 18 Mg ha–1), and maize straw combined with bentonite amendment (T3, 6 Mg ha–1 maize straw plus 18 Mg ha–1 bentonite)] was conducted in the Loess Plateau of China to assess the effects of bentonite and maize straw on aggregation and SOC. The results indicated that soil bulk density decreased by 2.72–5.42%, and soil porosity increased by 3.38–8.77% with three years of T3 application, especially in the 20–40 cm layer, compared with CK. T3 increased the amount of C input, SOC stock, and SOC stock sequestration rate by 1.04 Mg ha−1 y−1, 0.84–1.08 Mg ha−1, and 0.49 Mg ha−1 y−1, respectively, and it increased the mass proportions and aggregate-associated C stock of >0.25 mm aggregates by 1.15–2.51- and 1.59–2.96-fold compared with CK. Correlation analysis showed a positive correlation of total SOC stock with the C concentration of >2 mm, 0.25–2 mm, and 0.053–0.25 mm aggregates. Aggregates of various sizes in sandy soils have the potential for greater SOC stock. Our findings suggest that the application of maize straw (6 Mg ha–1) combined with bentonite (18 Mg ha–1) would be an effective management strategy to enhance the bulk soil C pools by improving the soil structure and thereby improving soil fertility.

Micronutrient Deficiency in Indian Diet

Micronutrient deficiency in the Indian diet poses a significant health challenge, impacting millions across the nation. The inadequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, vitamin A, and iodine, can lead to severe health issues, including anaemia, impaired cognitive development, and compromised immune function. One crucial factor contributing to micronutrient deficiency is soil pollution, which directly affects the nutritional content of vegetables and fruits. Soil pollution results from the presence of contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial waste, negatively impacting soil health and composition. As plants absorb nutrients from the soil, polluted soil leads to diminished nutrient uptake by crops, exacerbating the micronutrient deficiency in the food chain. The contamination of soil with heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, can inhibit the absorption of essential minerals by plant roots. Consequently, vegetables and fruits grown in polluted soil may exhibit lower concentrations of vital micronutrients, even if individuals consume the same quantity of produce. This compromised nutritional quality directly contributes to the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in the Indian population. Addressing this issue necessitates a multi-faceted approach. Implementing sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming and soil remediation techniques, can help reduce soil pollution and enhance soil fertility. Additionally, promoting awareness about the importance of diversified diets and dietary supplements can empower communities to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Government initiatives, research collaborations, and public-private partnerships are essential to developing and implementing strategies that tackle both soil pollution and micronutrient deficiency in the Indian context, fostering a healthier and more resilient population. Keywords: Nutrients, Micronutrients, Indian diet, Vitamins, Supplements.

Organic Farming vs. Integrated Nutrient Management: A Comparative Review of Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability

In an era where sustainable agriculture is crucial for global food security and environmental preservation, organic farming and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) have emerged as leading practices. This review paper offers a comprehensive comparison of these two approaches, focusing on their impact on agricultural productivity and sustainability. Organic farming, with its emphasis on reducing the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, growth hormones, and feed additives, aligns closely with the principles of sustainability. It enhances food quality, promotes soil health, and mitigates adverse environmental effects by encouraging natural recovery cycles. However, organic farming's limitations, such as lower yields and a more labour-intensive approach have prompted interest in innovative solutions that blend organic practices with modern technologies. Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) presents a compelling alternative. By combining organic, inorganic, and biological nutrient sources, INM seeks to optimize nutrient use efficiency and maintain soil health. This approach offers a flexible nutrient management strategy, balancing organic and inorganic inputs to maintain crop productivity while reducing environmental impact. Studies have shown that INM can improve soil properties, such as bulk density, porosity, and water-holding capacity, leading to enhanced crop yields and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The paper explores how INM's integrated approach not only stabilizes crop production but also supports the growth of soil microbes, providing a source of energy and organic carbon. By using a combination of specific microorganisms, organic matter, and minimal doses of inorganic fertilizers, INM can achieve a harmonious balance that reduces environmental pollution and ensures long-term soil fertility. Ultimately, this review underscores the potential of combining organic and INM practices to create a sustainable and productive agricultural system. Through a comparative analysis, the paper aims to guide researchers, policymakers, and farmers towards adopting strategies that foster agricultural sustainability without compromising productivity.

The Progress/Status of Ecological Assessment on the Intensive Land Use in Selenge and Darkhan-Uul Province, Mongolia

Abstract. The study area, it includes Darkhan-Uul and Selenge provinces of Mongolia, is included in the most favourable natural-geographical areas, and the migration of people with livestock from the peripheral areas has led to an increase in the population, as well as a sharp increase in the number of grazing animals, resulting in the effects of natural and human activities. give an evaluation, develop the basis for the proper use of the land in the future. In Mongolia, the methods and principles of land evaluation differ depending on the general classification and purpose of land, so considering these characteristics, land evaluation is carried out by (1) the Department of Agriculture, (2) the Department of Urban Development, Industry and Mines, (3) the Department of Roads and Networks, (4) it is divided into types of land with forest reserves (Tserenbaljir, B. Naranchimeg, 2004). In the "instructions for land evaluation" issued by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1976, in the assessment of land quality, in addition to the main indicators of soil fertility and moisture, climate, land cover and use, chemical pollutions such as an alkaline acidity. In the ecological assessment study, data on land use, soil, vegetation, climate, natural conditions, resources, socio-economic, satellite and field studies were collected in numerical and tabular form. The Ecological assessment in intensive land use is divided into qualitative and quantitative assessment. The Qualitative assessment predicts ecological properties. The Quantitative methods use multi-species numerical methods to record ecological elements and calculate the overall percentage of ecological characteristics.