CELEBRATING A DECADE OF SOIL HEALTH CARDS
Introduction to the Soil Health Card Scheme:
- The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 19, 2015, in Suratgarh, Rajasthan.
- The scheme was created to help farmers by providing them with information about their soil’s nutrient status, alongside recommendations for improving soil health and fertility.
- The Soil Health Card gives data on 12 key parameters, including macro-nutrients (N, P, K, S), micro-nutrients (Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn, Bo), and soil pH, EC, OC.
- This helps farmers apply the right amount of nutrients, improving soil health and crop yields
TECHNOLOGICAL FEATURES & PORTAL
- The Soil Health Card Portal was created for easy access, offering soil health information in multiple languages and dialects.
- Soil samples are typically taken twice a year, after Rabi and Kharif crops are harvested, or when no crop is standing.
- The SHC Mobile App, introduced in 2023, enables geo-mapping, easy access to soil test results, and the generation of a QR code to directly link results to the portal.
VILLAGE LEVEL SOIL TESTING LABS
- In June 2023, guidelines for setting up VLSTLs were issued.
- These labs can be established by rural youth, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), or Farmers Producers Organisations (FPOs).
- By February 2025, 665 VLSTLs were set up in 17 states, increasing local testing capacity and empowering rural entrepreneurs.
SCHOOL SOIL HEALTH PROGRAM
- A pilot project, launched in collaboration with ICAR, School Education Department, and State Governments, aimed to educate students on soil health for sustainable agriculture.
- As of 2024, 1020 schools are running the program, with 1000 soil testing labs set up and over 125,000 students
- Students collect soil samples, conduct tests, and educate local farmers on the recommendations from the Soil Health Cards.
Integration with Other Schemes:
- From 2022-23, the Soil Health Card Scheme became part of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) under the component Soil Health & Fertility, further integrating soil health efforts with broader agricultural policies.
Impact of Technological Advancements:
- The revamped Soil Health Card portal, integrated with a Geographic Information System (GIS), offers graphical data and maps for better monitoring and implementation.
- The mobile app allows farmers to easily access their soil health data and manage their farming practices more efficiently.
- The app restricts sample collection regions and auto-links test results.
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