Dr. Vivak M. Arya, Tamanna Sharma
“To forget how to dig the earth and to tend the soil is to forget ourselves.” – Mahatma Gandhi- A quote by Mahatama Gandhi itself signifies that soil and humanity have evolved together. The Earth is often hailed as the cradle of life, providing a diverse ecosystem that sustains all living beings. However, the true foundation of this intricate web of life lies beneath our feet, hidden from plain sight yet indispensable to our existence. Both our natural habitats and agricultural systems are built on the foundation of soil, the essential medium that fosters plant growth.
World Soil Day (WSD) is observed annually on December 5th to promote long-term sustainable management of soil resources and raise the general awareness about the importance of healthy soil. An international day to honour soil was proposed in 2002 by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS).
World Soil Day has played a crucial role in promoting sustainable soil management resources. People utilise the day to inspire and educate one another all throughout the world. It serves as a timely reminder to value this amazing natural resource, which is the foundation of the Water-Food-Energy nexus. This global event offers a forum for discussion, information exchange, and collaborative efforts aimed at protecting and regaining the health of our soils for decision-makers, scientists, environmentalists, farmers, and communities around the globe.
Theme of WSD 2023: Every year, World Soil Day centres around a particular theme to highlight important concerns and encourage projects that highlight the value of sustainable soil management techniques. World Soil Day 2023 and its campaign “Soil and water, a source of life” seek to increase public awareness of the role that soil and water play in creating resilient and sustainable agrifood systems. The vital connection between soil and water is essential to the existence of our planet. More than 95% of our food comes from these two primary sources. Soil water, vital for nutrient absorption by plants, binds our ecosystems together. Water is necessary for the formation and maintenance of soil, and soil functions as a reservoir to affect the quantity and quality of water that is available for use. The foundation of our agricultural systems is based on this symbiotic relationship. A wide variety of plant and animal species can find habitats and nourishment in the varied ecosystems that are supported by the complex interactions between soil and water. Nutrient- and organic matter-rich healthy soil fosters the growth of a wide variety of plants, which in turn creates a thriving habitat for a wide range of species. This in turn maintains a complex food web in which the existence of different species depends on the soil-water nexus. Marshes, riparian zones, and wetlands are prime examples of the mutually beneficial relationship between soil and water. They are vital habitats for a wide range of species, including amphibians, migratory birds, and aquatic life. Even from agriculture point of view, the interdependence of soil and water is critical for agricultural output and the maintenance of world food systems. In addition to anchoring plant roots and promoting nutrient absorption, soil serves as the essential medium for crop growth. For agricultural development, yield, and quality, there must be an adequate supply of water, which can be controlled by irrigation and natural rainfall. In order to guarantee food security and foster resilient farming systems in the face of climatic variability and environmental difficulties, sustainable agricultural practices that place a high priority on soil health, water conservation, and nutrient management are essential. But as a result of climate change and human activity, our soils are deteriorating, which is placing undue strain on our water supplies. Water infiltration and availability for all forms of life are reduced due to erosion, which upsets the ecological equilibrium. An estimated 24 billion tonnes of rich soil are lost to erosion annually while the national average soil loss in India is 15.59 t/ha/year. The UT of Jammu and Kashmir lies in the Himalayan zone and because of its fragile mountainous terrain, the shallow soil is subject to various types and degrees of soil erosion. Numerous human-caused activities that lead to soil deterioration and loss include abuse of fertilisers, illegal encroachment, forest fires, deforestation, intensive agricultural practices, etc. Erosion is the primary cause of soil loss among all the aforementioned processes. Addressing the challenges faced by soil and water necessitates concerted efforts toward sustainable management and conservation. Effective strategies and practices include:
* Soil Conservation Practices: By adopting techniques like terracing, contour farming, and cover crops, soil erosion can be reduced and soil structure can be improved, thus, fostering sustainable agricultural practices and preserving natural habitats.
* Water Resource Management: To ensure the availability and quality of water, it is crucial to implement integrated systems that prioritise water conservation, effective irrigation methods, and source preservation. Maintaining sustainable agriculture practices requires the effective use of high-quality water, encouraging the sustainable use of pesticides and fertilisers, using appropriate methods for irrigation, enhancing drainage systems, managing pumping, and keeping an eye on the salinity levels of the soil and groundwater.
* Reforestation and Afforestation: Encouraging afforestation and reforestation projects benefits soil fertility, reduces the effects of soil erosion, and aids in the replenishment of groundwater supplies.
* Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Promoting sustainable farming practices, such as integrated pest management, organic farming, and agroforestry, enhances soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation, resulting in resilient and productive agricultural systems.
*Policy Frameworks and Awareness: Developing and implementing comprehensive policy frameworks that prioritize the conservation of soil and water resources is crucial. Positive transformation can also be accelerated by teaching communities the value of sustainable land management and encouraging environmental responsibility. Numerous workshops, camps, and other events have been arranged in remote villages to address a range of problems related to the health and productivity of the soil.
Conclusion: Soil and water, the interconnected lifelines of Earth’s ecosystems, form the bedrock of life, sustaining a delicate balance that supports diverse life forms and human societies. It is critical to acknowledge their great significance and vulnerability in order to provide future generations with a sustainable future. Therefore, there is a strong need for a nexus approach with a strong focus on soil and water as quite literally the foundation of humanity’s future. By prioritizing responsible land and water management practices, promoting biodiversity conservation, and advocating for comprehensive environmental policies, we can nurture the critical relationship between soil and water, safeguarding the resilience and vitality of our planet’s natural systems. World Soil Day serves as a ray of hope, showing the way towards a future that is more ecologically balanced and sustainable. It highlights the vital role that soil plays in supporting life on Earth and the necessity of coordinated international actions to protect and improve the health of our soils. In keeping with the spirit of World Soil Day, let’s pledge to preserve and tend to the soil beneath our feet for the benefit of both the current and the future generations.
(The authors are from SKUAST-Jammu)
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