Soil Health - An Issue of Concern for Environment and Agriculture

Ashish Chauhan, Bharti Mittu

Abstract

Soil, as air and water, is a fundamental resource required for meeting the diverse needs of humans. Environmental pollution influences both soil and agriculture that are the two valuable resource essential for our sustenance. Soil is assumed as an inexhaustible resource that is used continually for increasing agricultural production. The soil today has virtually turned lifeless in places with increasing development and industrialization. Soil, microflora, fauna, nutrients and associated habitat has the potential to influence the soil ecosystem, agriculture, environment and economy. Soil and its living organisms are an integral part of ecosystems and environment, playing a critical role in maintaining soil health, ecosystem functioning and productivity.