Publication

Abstract :

Land degradation and soil depletion are pressing problems affecting the livelihood of smallholder farmers worldwide. Despite the serious threat these problems pose to the agricultural sector and to food security, unsustainable land management practices prevail.

The objectives of this study are to understand the soil health and land management practices in a rural community in the Western Ghats, Karnataka, recognised as one of the global biodiversity hotspots. The research methods include collecting primary data through soil testing, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions. The results of the research established that 92% of agricultural soil tests showed nutrient deficiencies, with at least one or multiple nutrients being at deficient levels. Another important finding was that the soil tests have shown that not only are deficiencies present but that there are also high levels of nutrient variability in comparison to the control sample. The study identified unsustainable land management practices in the area, such as high-density monoculture areca nut plantations, the absence of regular soil testing, and an indiscriminate use of agrochemicals, which create further pressure on the already fragile soil health and the ecosystem. Based on this research, we recommend including reference samples from undisturbed areas in soil testing protocols. We also recommend providing differentiated reporting and guidance for farmers when unusual nutrient variations are detected, especially when these variations are particularly high. The research further recommends the adoption of awareness and education campaigns for farmers on soil health and sustainable land management.