Copyright thehindubusinessline
India’s agricultural journey is one of the world’s most remarkable success stories. From overcoming food shortages in the mid-20th century to becoming a global leader in food production, the country has ensured self-sufficiency while contributing to global grain exports. It has shown that it can turn challenges into milestones. Today, India is ready for its next leap — a Brown Revolution — where the soil beneath our feet becomes the driver of nutrition security, climate stability, and farmer prosperity. Healthy soils are more than just a medium for crops, they are living ecosystems that store water, host billions of beneficial organisms, cushion roots against droughts and temperature extremes, and act as the planet’s second-largest carbon sink after oceans. Over the past 70 years, soil organic carbon (SOC) in India has shifted from around 1 per cent to 0.3 per cent (National Rainfed Area Authority). This shift represents a massive scope for enrichment. By restoring SOC, we can improve nutrient retention, boost yields, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions — creating benefits for both farmers and the environment. The nutrition dividend beneath our feet When soils are rich in essential micronutrients, they produce crops that are both higher yielding and more nutritious. The potential is significant: Zinc: In states like Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Bihar, replenishing zinc can recover yield losses of 5–30% in rice, wheat, maize, and pulses. Iron: In Maharashtra, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, addressing iron deficiency can improve crop growth and nutritional quality. Boron: In parts of eastern and northeastern India, boron enrichment enhances fruit and seed development, increasing both productivity and market value. These improvements go beyond agriculture, they contribute to stronger immunity, better cognitive development, and improved public health for millions. Optimiszing inputs, maximising returns India already demonstrates strong fertilizer adoption in several regions. According to ICRIER, states like Punjab, Haryana, the Gangetic Plains, and the southern east-coast states apply more fertilizer per hectare than the national average of 217.8 kg/ha. In 2022–23, nitrogen fertilizer usage in Punjab, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana was between 50% and 169% higher than the national average. Yet in 2024, nitrogen deficiency in these same states stood at 100 per cent, 72 per cent, 84 per cent, and 76 per cent respectively. This presents a clear pathway for optimization. The 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework — Right Source, Right Rate, Right Time, Right Place enables farmers to match nutrient application to crop needs, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing soil vitality. Innovation at the core The tools to achieve this transformation are already in farmers’ hands. AI-driven soil mapping is delivering precise, field-specific nutrient recommendations. Real-time nutrient monitoring allows timely adjustments during the growing season. “Phygital” advisory models — combining on-ground soil testing with mobile-based guidance are ensuring that even smallholders can access advanced agronomy. This democratisation of knowledge ensures that farmers of all scales can benefit from cutting-edge practices, enabling them to shift from reactive fertilizer use to proactive soil stewardship. The micronutrient revolution India is poised to lead a micronutrient revolution. Scaling biofortified seeds, micronutrient blends, and efficient soil amendments can replenish decades of nutrient loss while embedding resilience into every harvest. Expanding domestic production of key micronutrients such as boron compounds and specialty chelated formulations will reduce import dependency, strengthen self-reliance, and open new opportunities for agri-tech innovators, input manufacturers, and farmer cooperatives. Policy as a catalyst Government initiatives are already creating momentum. The recent GST rate rationalisation is a step towards balanced crop nutrition, while Digital Soil Health Cards are equipping farmers with tailored nutrient advice. Balanced nutrient subsidies will encourage sustainable application practices and Incentives for regenerative farming will safeguard long-term soil health. Together, these measures position soil health as a strategic growth driver — not just for agriculture, but for the economy as a whole. India has shown the world how to overcome scarcity. The next chapter is about moving beyond abundance toward durable prosperity where every harvest is richer, every field more resilient, and every meal more nourishing. By investing in soil health guided by science, powered by technology, and led by farmers we are not just protecting farmland. We are building a stronger agricultural economy, a healthier population, and a more sustainable planet. The opportunity is here. The soil is ready. And so is India. The author is Managing Director, Yara South Asia Published on October 19, 2025
