International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Soil is a critical factor in determining plant growth and development. With approximately 30% of Indian soils degraded, caused by excessive fertilizer use, monocropping, and climate change such as cyclones, floods, cloudbursts, and landslides, the nation faces a crucial task of reversing soil damage. Thus this paper, highlights the importance and the utility of diversifying nutrients through different organic manure production techniques (fermentation/ decomposition or composting process), use of mountain micro-organisms, weed manures, crop residues, oil cakes and bio-fertilizers. These organic sources not only improve soil fertility and soil productivity but also replenishes soil with nutrients. Additionally, practices like conservation tillage has a huge scope to reduce soil compaction and improves soil structure. Smart innovations including, soil remediation, bio inoculation of extremophiles, high-quality worm castings free of chemical additives, and genetically-modified organisms (GMOs) can be harassed and used effectively to reduce use of commercial fertilizers. Under rapid progressing water deficits and climate change, use of hydrogels and cultivation of Fonio, a nutritious gluten-free grain can serve as an alternative to combat drought and retain water.  The potential of new innovative technology along with precision agriculture and A. I can aid soil health. Low-cost technology, coupled with a reliable mobile app that provides AI-based agricultural information and collaboration with various agencies, can significantly boost the economy of small-scale farmers. It can reduce crop health issues, minimize post-harvest losses, improve farmers' income, enhance resource use efficiency, and promote balanced nutrient application, which in turn can help to mitigate the diverse effects on soil.