Organic Farming: A Way To Combat Soil Pollution

Problems of using chemical fertilisersThe Green Revolution in India led to an increase in food grain production. The introduction of High Yielding Variety (HYV) of seeds and the enhanced quality of fertilisers augmented agricultural production.

- Aniket Panja

However, excessive and inappropriate use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides increased soil and water pollution and rapidly depleted the natural nutrients present in soil. Rampant and reckless irrigation practices have also led to soil degradation and depletion of groundwater levels. Using too much of fertilisers has altered the fertility of the soil and increased the acid levels. In addition to altering the pH levels, synthetic fertilisers also tend to kill the beneficial micro-organisms present in soil. This makes agricultural production highly dependent on fertilisers as the natural fertility of the soil gets compromised by repeated use of chemical fertilisers. Fertiliser usage has also been associated with the decrease in nutritional value in many food items.

Organic farming as an alternative in India

The benefits of the Green Revolution have now been nearly exhausted and with its diminishing returns, it is now necessary to devise alternate agrarian techniques and practices. Organic farming can be a sustainable alternative. However, it would require focused policy intervention to make it a viable alternative to ordinary farming. Organic farming is a holistic agricultural production management system and is one way to promote self-sufficiency and food security in addition to combatting soil pollution.