Tura, July 26: In a promising development for sustainable agriculture in Northeast India, scientists have launched a major field trial to test biofertilizer technologies designed for the region’s acidic soils.
The initiative, currently underway in the villages of Jijikapara, Rimrangpara, and Kherapara Surunanggre under Dalu block in West Garo Hills, aims to enhance paddy productivity during the kharif season.
The trial is being jointly conducted by the Multi Technology Testing Centre and Vocational Training Centre (MTTC&VTC) at the College of Community Science (CCS), Central Agricultural University (CAU-I), Tura, and the College of Post Graduate Studies in Agricultural Sciences, CAU-I, Umiam.
Led by Dr. Sabyasachi Majumdar, Assistant Professor of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, the trials are testing three acid soil-compatible bio-inputs—Um-PSB, CAU Bioenhancer, and CAU Jhum Bioenhancer. These biofertilizers are known to promote early root development and crop establishment, potentially increasing yields by 10–20%.
“The use of biofertilizers can help reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers, which can degrade soil quality and harm the ecosystem,” a scientist associated with the trials said.
“By adopting biofertilizers, farmers in Meghalaya can improve their rice yields while reducing their environmental footprint,” the scientist said.
The scientist said the multi location trials aim to address this issue by testing biofertilizers that can thrive in acidic conditions, potentially paving the way for widespread adoption in lowland rice production.
” The results of the trial are expected to offer viable alternatives to chemical fertilizers while addressing regional soil constraints. If successful, this initiative could improve food security and promote sustainable agriculture practices in Meghalaya, ” the scientist added.
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