Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted the importance of soil testing through mobile technology during his address at the Kisan Tak Bharat Agriculture Conference on November 12. He emphasised that the soil holds vital information about its health and nutrient requirements, yet farmers often rely on traditional methods of fertiliser application without understanding the specific needs of their fields.

Modi called for a shift towards chemical-free farming practices and urged farmers to adopt scientific methods for soil management. During his speech, he introduced a mobile-based device that allows farmers to analyse soil conditions. By placing a small sample of soil on this device, farmers can receive immediate feedback on suitable crops, fertiliser types, and quantities needed for optimal growth.

This innovative approach aims to empower farmers with data-driven insights to enhance agricultural productivity. Modi also mentioned the development of sensor-based equipment integrated with artificial intelligence, which is designed to provide precise information at an affordable cost. This technology aims to benefit even the smallest farmers, making scientific farming accessible to all.

Understanding Nutrient Use Efficiency

At the same conference, Mahesh Girdhar, President of Agriculture Solutions at MAL, discussed the concept of nutrient use efficiency, which measures how much of the applied fertiliser is actually absorbed by plants. He noted that nitrogen absorption ranges from 30 to 45 per cent, while phosphorus absorption is between 15 and 25 per cent. This indicates that a significant portion of the fertiliser purchased by farmers does not contribute to crop yield, highlighting the need for accurate soil testing.

Research conducted by the National Productivity Council in 2017 revealed that farmers who adhered to recommendations from Soil Health Cards used 8 to 10 per cent less chemical fertiliser and achieved 5 to 6 per cent higher yields. However, the time taken to receive lab results often poses a challenge for farmers, who cannot afford delays in planting.

To address this issue, innovative solutions like NutriSens, developed by Dr Rajul Patkar, have emerged. This device requires just one gram of soil and provides results within five minutes, making it a practical tool for farmers across various states in India. The device not only reduces testing costs but also empowers rural women to become community soil testers.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the advancements in soil testing technology, challenges remain. For instance, while devices like IIT Kanpur’s Bhu-Parikshak provide quick results using near-infrared light, they may not accurately measure all essential nutrients. The reliance on algorithms for diagnosing plant health also raises concerns about their effectiveness in real-world conditions.

Moreover, while mobile applications can provide valuable information, studies indicate that many farmers do not act on the advice received. A survey in Odisha found that compliance with pest management recommendations dropped significantly during severe pest attacks, highlighting the gap between knowledge and action.

As the government continues to promote digital tools for farmers, the challenge lies in translating complex data into actionable insights. Initiatives like Bharat-VISTAAR aim to provide comprehensive support by integrating weather forecasts, soil health data, and market information into a single platform. However, the actual adoption of these technologies remains limited, with many farmers still relying on traditional practices.

In conclusion, while the potential for mobile technology to transform soil management in agriculture is significant, bridging the gap between data and practical application will be crucial for realising its benefits. The ongoing development of user-friendly tools and education for farmers will play a vital role in shaping the future of agriculture in India.

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