The Soil Health Card Scheme was initiated by the Government of India in 2015 to facilitate sustainable farming and enhance soil fertility in the country. The primary purpose of the scheme is to furnish farmers with precise information regarding the nutrient status of their soil and customized recommendations for fertilizer and manure application. This enables farmers to make informed decisions, minimize input costs, and raise crop productivity.
Through the scheme, soil samples are taken from farms and analyzed in the lab against important parameters such as pH, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients. Based on the analysis, all farmers are provided with a Soil Health Card that includes a report and recommendations regarding soil health maintenance. The card is replaced every two years to keep track of changes and improve the soil continuously.
The program has resulted in discerning fertilizer application, enhanced soil fertility management, and increased crop yields. It further encourages environmental protection through reducing excessive use of chemical fertilizer. Generally, the Soil Health Card Scheme empowers farmers to implement scientific soil management techniques, leading to sustainable and profitable agriculture in India.