The Biochar for Soil Health and Sustainable Farming

Title: Collaborative Solutions: Cross Disciplinary Approaches to Achieve Global Sustainability Goals

Editors: Dr. Gautam Agrawal, and Dr. Swati Singh

ISBN: 978-81-69857-19-2

Chapter: 3

Authors: Pradipta Ranjan Pradhan, Sanskar Raghav, Ali Asghar Yusuf Tasadukh Hussein, Murtaza Yusuf Tasaduk Hussein, Rishabh Dev Sharma and Gourav Deshwal

Abstract

Modern farming faces a serious decline in soil fertility, especially across India. Heavy chemical use and poor rainfall have damaged millions of hectares of land. Climate change further worsens this soil degradation today. Biochar is a black powder made from farm waste under low oxygen. Common materials like wood or rice husk create this useful substance. This chapter examines how biochar improves the physical structure of soil. It enhances water retention and the absorption of vital nutrients. The growth of helpful soil microbes also increases with its use. Biochar helps boost crop yields while saving precious irrigation water. It fights climate change by locking carbon deep within the ground. This study reviews literature and recent research published after 2020. We focus on Indian rice-wheat fields and black cotton soils. The analysis also covers rainfed areas and specific local conditions. Most results are positive, yet some research gaps still exist. We need long-term trials, particularly in alkaline soil regions. High costs remain a concern for many small-scale Indian farmers. Addressing these issues is vital for diverse agricultural settings. Biochar aligns well with the national Soil Health Card scheme. It supports the government’s recent push toward organic farming practices. This method offers a cheap and sustainable path for future generations. The chapter describes low-cost production methods at the village level. Small landowners can benefit without spending significant amounts of money.

Keywords: Biochar, Soil health, Sustainable agriculture, Carbon sequestration, Crop productivity