Effect of different land uses on soil health in Ga3a micro-watershed of Solan district in Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

Fertility is an important indicator because nutrient levels directly influence crop productivity. So are the soil related constraints such as salinity, sodicity and acidity which are equally very important indicators because high salinity inhibits crop growth, while high sodicity leads to loss of soil structure and acidity related infertility syndrome is quite common. As rice and rice based cropping systems contribute largely to the total food production, sustainability of this system is vital for food and nutritional security. Further, water shortage being experienced in the country is threatening the conventional rice cultivation system warranting a re-look into the current practices and design strategies for enhancing resource quality and water productivity. Measurement procedures and guideline optimum ranges for soil chemical, physical and biological properties are available and can be used to identify the most critical limiting soil factors in relation to their soil condition, plant type, climate and management practices. Emphasis to date has been largely on chemical and physical indicators of soil quality rather than on microbiological indicators, which are generally regarded as more difficult to measure, predict or quantify. Soil microorganisms are also very suitable and sensitive indicators that can also be used as predictive tools in soil quality monitoring. The indices for soil quality are considered to be of immense significance to manage soil health in order to sustain productivity of crop and to achieve an environment friendly crop production.