Harnessing the potential of crop residues: An integrated approach to soil and resource management

Abstract

India, as a major agricultural nation, generates a substantial amount of crop residues annually. A significant portion of these residues is often burned in the fields, causing severe environmental pollution, health risks, and loss of valuable organic matter. However, the strategic incorporation of crop residues into the soil offers a sustainable alternative, enhancing soil fertility, improving soil structure, and supporting long-term agricultural productivity. This review explores various crop residue management techniques including zero tillage, mulching, and in-situ residue incorporation that have demonstrated positive effects on crop growth, nutrient use efficiency, and water conservation. These practices not only contribute to reducing the dependency on external inputs but also help mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change. Given the critical role of crop residues in sustaining food grain production, especially in intensively cultivated regions, effective residue management is essential for ensuring food security, conserving natural resources, and sustaining rural livelihoods. Despite its potential, the adoption of residue management practices faces challenges such as declining soil health, water scarcity, and labour constraints. This review underscores the need for integrated residue management strategies to foster environmentally sound and economically viable agricultural systems in India.