The Agriculture Department Conducting the Soil Test

Mysuru: Zinc and boron are very essential for plant growth and the soil across large tracts of land is deficient in micronutrients. The Agriculture Department conducted the soil test for a year now and during this soil test deficiency of micronutrients was found.

After this, through the Raitha Samparka Kendras (RSKs) department supplying micronutrients and also under the soil fertility enrichment programme and the Bhoochetana Programme, micronutrient mixtures also supplied.

According to Somasundra, Joint Director of Agriculture, and Nagendra, Agriculture Officer, in most parts of the district, soil testing has almost been completed except in a few places with standing crops. Including Mysuru taluk and Nanjangud, soil in many areas also has depleted organic carbon content.

To enhance the organic content in soil, organic fertilisers, including vermicompost, too are being distributed to farmers, said officials.

To enable farmers to know their soil status and effect balanced fertiliser application, the Agriculture Department had prepared over 35,000 soil health cards to be distributed to farmers.

Through agriculture facilitators, had conducted soil test across the district, forming grids for the process. One dry land grid was about 10 hectares, while one irrigated land grid covered 2.5 hectares, said Mr. Nagendra.

On December 5, the department will be observing ‘Soil Day’ at the hobli level and the Krishi Vigyan Kendra scientists and the Zonal Agriculture Research Station are to take part and enlighten farmers about the application of farm manure for protecting soil.

Source:http://www.thehindu.com/