(a) the steps being taken to remedy the large tracts of problem soils like acidic soil, alkaline soil and water logged soils on nationwide basis and particularly in Haryana;
(b) whether there has been any change in remedying approach in recent times as compared to older times; and
(c) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE
???? ??? ????? ?????? ?????? ( SHRI NARENDRA SINGH TOMAR)
(a) to (c): The Government has taken various steps in recent years to remedy the problem soils like acidic soil, alkaline soil and water logged soils. Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is implementing following programmes:
i. Reclamation of Problem Soils (RPS) as a sub-scheme of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) since 2016-17 for development of problem soils (Alkalinity, Salinity and Acidity) on pilot basis in 15 States including Haryana and bring such land under cultivation so that further expansion of problem area is prevented.
ii. Soil Health Cards for rendering information to farmers on nutrient status of their soil along with cropping recommendations on appropriate dosage of nutrients to be applied for improving soil health and productivity.
iii. Other Schemes/ Missions, namely; Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), National Food Security Mission (NFSM), Parmparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) etc. are being implemented for sustainable agricultural production across the country.
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In addition to above, Ministry of Jal Shakti is implementing Command Area Development & Water Management Programme (CADWM) in 99 prioritised projects under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana- Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (PMKSY- AIBP). CADWM has provision for reclamation of water logged areas through surface, sub-surface and bio-drainage in commands of irrigation projects.
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) through Central Soil Salinity Research Institute (CSSRI), Karnal and All India Coordinated Research Project on Management of Salt Affected Soils and Use of Saline Water in Agriculture (ICAR) has developed reclamation technology viz. sub-surface drainage, bio-drainage, salt tolerant varieties of different crops (namely, rice, wheat, and mustard) and agro-forestry interventions to improve the productivity of such lands. The CSSRI, Karnal and its regional centres also impart training, organizes front line demonstrations etc. to educate farmers on these aspects. In addition, CSSRI, Karnal conducts continuous research studies to address the issue of such soils.
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