Impact of soil organic matter on soil dynamics: A comprehensive review with a focus on Indian contexts

Abstract

Soil organic matter (SOM) plays a fundamental role in maintaining soil fertility, structure, and overall health, making it a critical component of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. This review comprehensively explores the impact of SOM on soil dynamics, with a particular focus on the Indian context. It highlights the role of SOM in enhancing soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability, which are vital for improving crop productivity, especially in regions facing challenges such as soil degradation, salinity, and water scarcity. Furthermore, the paper discusses the contributions of SOM to carbon sequestration, microbial activity, and soil pH stabilization, thereby mitigating climate change effects and promoting ecological sustainability. The review also addresses challenges posed by declining SOM levels due to intensive farming, monocropping, and over-reliance on chemical fertilizers. Strategies to improve SOM content, including organic farming, conservation agriculture, and the use of compost, biochar, and green manure, are proposed as sustainable solutions. This analysis underscores the need for policy interventions and farmer awareness programs to restore SOM levels and ensure long-term soil health and agricultural productivity.