A Comparison on soil biological health on continuous organic and inorganic farming

Abstract

Agriculture is a critical sector of Indian economy. Increased use of chemicals, under intensive cultivation has disturbed the harmony existing among soil, plant and human health.1 Farmers are perusing chemical supplements to push crop yield, which is only harming the earth. Farmers and communities faced many socio-economic problems, particularly small farmers who found themselves increasingly marginalized due to lack of access to external inputs. Their soil is depleted from the constant application of harsh and harmful chemicals. The role of organic agriculture is to either enhance or sustain the overall quality and health of the soil ecosystem.2 Agricultural sustainability depends on productive soil. During the last several decades, much research has focussed on increasing productivity and protecting environmental quality under different farming systems. These studies show that conventional farming’s use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has increased crop yields and enhanced food security around the globe.3