Topic: Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country
Q5. Discuss the role of soil microorganisms in nutrient cycling and crop productivity. Explain how their decline affects fertiliser-use efficiency. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question
Soil degradation and declining soil biodiversity have emerged as major concerns for sustainable agriculture, nutrient-use efficiency and long-term food security in India.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires discussing the role played by soil microorganisms in nutrient cycling and enhancing crop productivity. It also requires explaining how the decline of these microorganisms adversely affects fertiliser-use efficiency.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly define soil microorganisms as the living component of soil responsible for nutrient transformation and ecosystem functioning.
Body
- Role in nutrient cycling: Explain how soil microorganisms facilitate nutrient transformation, decomposition and nutrient availability to plants.
- Contribution to crop productivity: Mention their role in improving plant growth, nutrient uptake, soil health and agricultural output.
- Impact on fertiliser-use efficiency: Explain how declining microbial populations reduce nutrient availability, increase fertiliser losses and lower nutrient-use efficiency.
Conclusion
Highlight the need to restore soil biological health through sustainable agricultural practices to achieve productive, resource-efficient and resilient farming systems.
