Desertification in India & Farming Technology

Brief Context

Context Recently, researchers from the Central University of Rajasthan (CUoR) have successfully grown wheat on desert land using an innovative ‘soilification technology’ powered by an indigenous bioformulation. About Desertification Desertification is defined as land degradation in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas due to various factors including climatic variations and human activities. According to the Space Applications Centre of ISRO, about 30% of India’s total geographical area suff

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Syllabus: GS3/Agriculture

Context

• Recently, researchers from the Central University of Rajasthan (CUoR) have successfully grown wheat on desert land using an innovative ‘soilification technology’ powered by an indigenous bioformulation.

About Desertification

• Desertification is defined as land degradation in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas due to various factors including climatic variations and human activities.
• According to the Space Applications Centre of ISRO, about 30% of India’s total geographical area suffers from degradation, with nearly 25% affected by desertification.

Extent of the Problem

• Nearly 96.40 million hectares of land in India are degraded (Space Applications Centre, ISRO, 2021).
• Drylands in Rajasthan contribute to over 23% of desertified areas, making it a hotspot for urgent interventions.
• India aims to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030 (India’s National Action Programme to Combat Desertification, MoEFCC).

Breakthroughs in Farming Technology

• Soilification Technology in Rajasthan: It lies in modifying desert sand into fertile soil using polymers and bioformulations. It involves:
  • cross-linking desert sand particles using eco-friendly polymers;
  • enhancing water retention capacity of sandy soil;
  • stimulating microbial activity through indigenous bioformulations;
  • creating a soil-like structure that supports crop growth;
  • Minimising the spread of desertification, particularly in vulnerable zones like western Rajasthan’s Thar Desert;
• Baramati Experiment in Maharashtra: It was based on AI and Precision Farming, supported by Microsoft and Oxford University, that uses AI-driven tools to optimize irrigation, pest control, and crop planning.
  • Farmers reported up to 40% increase in yield;
  • Reduced input costs and water usage;
  • Real-time data helps manage climate risks.

Other Farming Technology in Combating Desertification

• Precision Agriculture: Use of drones, sensors, and GIS to monitor soil moisture and nutrient levels.
• Micro-Irrigation Systems: Drip and sprinkler irrigation reduce water wastage and salinity.
• Soil Conservation Technologies: Zero-tillage, contour bunding, and mulching help retain soil moisture.
• Agroforestry: Integration of trees with crops prevents erosion and enhances soil carbon sequestration.
• Remote Sensing & Satellite Monitoring: ISRO’s Desertification Atlas provides data for planning at national and state levels.
• Climate-Smart Farming: Adoption of drought-resistant crop varieties (e.g., millets) promoted under the International Year of Millets 2023 initiative.
• Natural Farming: It avoids chemical fertilizers and pesticides, restores soil health and water permeability, and promotes climate-resilient agriculture.

Source: TH