Having worked extensively on crop systems at ICAR, I’ve observed how conventional agriculture often relies on groundwater and nearby water sources, leading to severe depletion when extraction outpaces recharge. The high water usage and resulting inefficiency challenge long-term sustainability, putting immense pressure on the environment. Years of unchecked extraction have caused declining water tables, directly affecting agriculture and the wellbeing of local communities. 10 Agricultural Techniques for Water Conservation to Boost Yields Through 10 agricultural techniques rooted in water conservation, modern farms are transforming soil management, irrigation, and sustainability practices. By implementing targeted techniques, farmers can enhance water efficiency and ...

Soil health plays a pivotal role in the success of agriculture and gardening in India, where conditions vary widely across the rural and urban landscape. The soil in arid regions like Rajasthan presents unique challenges, while areas with humid and wet conditions like Kerala demand different approaches. Whether you’re nurturing a kitchen garden or managing large-scale farming, improving the fertility and structure of the soil is essential for growing healthy, nutrient-rich crops. Soil amendments for thriving gardens in India are essential for enhancing soil fertility and creating a healthy environment for plants to flourish. From personal experience, I’ve found that ...

The challenge of water scarcity in India is becoming increasingly dire, especially in regions such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Farmers in these areas face harsh droughts and erratic rainfall, which severely impacts their crop production and the overall irrigation system. The introduction of smart irrigation systems has proven to be an innovative sustainable solution that not only addresses the pressing issues of water scarcity but also optimizes water use, ensuring efficient irrigation for polytunnel growers. By leveraging technology, these systems provide smart watering solutions, allowing farmers to precisely monitor and adjust water usage based on real-time data, resulting in ...

When considering harvest planning for modern farming, it is crucial to understand the challenges that farmers face in today’s agricultural landscape. In 2025, global demand for food is expected to continue rising, yet factors like labor shortages, climate unpredictability, and market fluctuations make it difficult for farmers and agribusinesses to maintain steady margins. The FAO estimates that 13.2% of global food production is lost due to poor harvest management, including issues in transport, storage, and processing. That’s why proper planning at every stage is critical to safeguard profitability. A well-planned harvest, in contrast to a poorly managed one, ensures that ...

Whether you’re a farmer, hobbyist, or gardener, discovering the power of cottonseed meal as a natural and organic fertilizer can transform your approach to farming and cultivation. Derived from the seed left after cotton oil extraction, this plant-based product enriches the soil with slow-releasing nutrients, especially nitrogen and protein, which are vital for healthy crop growth. From my own observation in both research plots and small garden spaces, cottonseed meal not only improves soil texture but also encourages microbial activity, creating a nutritious and biodegradable base that supports regenerative agriculture practices. Cottonseed Meal Fertilizer: Nature’s Power for Soil Health In ...

In India, the rise of organic farming can be attributed to a growing demand for organic produces and a shift toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Historically, organic farming methods have been practiced since ancient times, with the primary aim of cultivating food in harmony with nature. With concerns over synthetic inputs such as pesticides, fertilizers, and hormones, modern-day organic practices now embrace biological wastes, organic wastes, and bio-fertilizers to enrich the soil. These components, alongside organic manures, play a pivotal role in maintaining soil fertility and supporting sustainable crop production without harming the environment. The growing popularity of ...