Scientist calls for integration of forest conservation policy with circular soil and agricultural strategies

Integration of forest conservation policies with circular soil and agricultural strategies has become a need, P. Raja, former Principal Scientist, ICAR–IISWC (Indian Institute of Soil Water Conservation) Research Centre, Koraput, Odisha, emphasised on Friday.

Replacement of farmyard manure with compost or spent mushroom compost (SMC) enhances carbon sequestration and has the potential to reduce district-level emissions by up to 33%, he said at the World Soil Day celebrations in TNAU on the global theme: Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities.

P. Rakkiyappan, QRT (Quinquennial Review Team) Member, AICRP (All India Coordinated Research Project) on Sugarcane, ICAR–Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow, underscored the urgent need to address plastic pollution and promote polythene-free practices.

The students took out a rally to broad-base awareness on the vital role of soil, its protection, preservation, and scientific management of soil health.