Soil Health Card Scheme: The Government of India launched the Soil Health Card Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare with the aim of empowering farmers to practice scientific farming. The primary objective of this scheme is to provide farmers with information about the actual soil condition of their land, enabling them to make scientific decisions regarding crop selection, fertilizer use, and soil improvement. Under the scheme, efforts are being made to ensure that soil health contributes to crop productivity and farmer prosperity.
More than 250 million farmers have benefited
Under this scheme, more than 250 million farmers have been issued Soil Health Cards. Each farmer is issued this card every two to three years. The card reports 12 key soil parameters, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, zinc, iron, copper, manganese, boron, organic carbon, pH level, and electrical conductivity. All these elements are analyzed to inform farmers about which nutrients are lacking in their soil and which crops would be best suited for their land.
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Scientific Process of Soil Testing
The process of issuing Soil Health Cards is based entirely on scientific methodology. Soil samples are taken from a field approximately 15 to 20 centimeters deep. These samples are collected from a grid area of two to two and a half hectares. They are then sent to state government soil testing laboratories, agricultural universities, or accredited private laboratories. Based on the test report, farmers are issued cards. Farmers can also download their reports online from the soilhealth.dac.gov.in portal.
Benefits for Farmers
This scheme has encouraged farmers to adopt modern farming methods. By knowing the actual soil conditions, farmers can select appropriate crops, which increases production and reduces costs. Balanced use of fertilizers maintains soil fertility for a long time and also reduces chemical impact on the environment. Following the card’s recommendations balances the soil’s pH level, and the use of organic fertilizers improves soil quality. This directly increases farmers’ income.
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The scheme has also promoted rural employment. The government provides up to 75 percent financial assistance to rural youth to set up soil testing laboratories, which increases both self-reliance and employment in villages.
Application Process
Farmers can contact their nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Block Agriculture Office, or Gram Panchayat to avail the scheme. They can also apply online at soilhealth.dac.gov.in. A copy of their Aadhaar card, address proof, and bank passbook are required for application. For more information, farmers can contact the toll-free helpline number 1800-180-1551.