Source: TH
Context: Researchers at the Central University of Rajasthan (CUoR) successfully grew wheat on desert land in Ajmer using ‘soilification’ technology.
About Soilification Technology:
- What it is?
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- A biotechnology-based method that transforms loose desert sand into soil-like medium suitable for farming.
- Uses indigenous bioformulations and polymers to improve fertility and water retention.
- How it works?
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- Polymer application: Cross-links sand particles, converting loose sand into structured soil.
- Bioformulation: Enhances microbial activity, improving nutrient cycling and soil health.
- Water retention: Creates a binding effect, lowering irrigation requirements.
- Stress resistance: Strengthens plant tolerance to heat and arid conditions.
- Crop adaptability: Successfully trialled on wheat, bajra, guar gum, and chickpea.
- Key Features:
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- Water efficient: Reduced irrigation cycles (3–4 vs. 5–6 in normal farming).
- High yield ratio: Wheat yield recorded at 1:20 (seed to harvest), twice the output of untreated desert land.
- Low input cost: Uses locally available bio-agents and simple application techniques.
- Eco-restorative: Converts barren deserts into cultivable farmland without heavy machinery.
- Significance:
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- Desertification control: Prevents Thar desert expansion towards NCR by restoring soil fertility.
- Water security: Minimises groundwater use, critical in water-scarce Rajasthan.
- Food security: Enables cultivation of staples like wheat and millet in arid belts.
