Response

Unfortunately, the response to the changes in soils leading to degradation has been painfully slow. Nonetheless, systematic watershed development and command area development programmes have earnestly attempted to set matters right. Some steps have also been taken to rationalise energy and water use through tariff structure. The present infrastructure of seven research stations in different agroclimatic zones in the state by the Department of Agriculture helps in monitoring the changes in soil content but needs further strengthening by way of interlocking with Agricultural Universities, Non-governmental organisations, Experts and Institutions.

Soil also has to be protected by systematic soil conservation measures as part of agricultural practice especially in dryland areas. The same needs to be done in catchments and watersheds to ensure soil runoff into water. The research findings of CRIDA, ICRISAT etc. in this regard need to be implemented at level field and success stories replicated.