CHANDEL, Dec 5: Emphasizing the critical role of soil in both rural agriculture and urban resilience, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chandel, observed World Soil Day today at its Conference Hall under the global theme, “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities.”
The observance brought together agricultural experts, district officials, and local farmers to advocate for the sustainable management of soil resources in the face of rapid urbanization and climate change.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Kangjam Sonamani Singh, Subject Matter Specialist (Soil & Water Conservation), highlighted the indispensable nature of soil, noting that over 95 percent of human food originates from it. “Soil supplies 15 of the 18 naturally occurring chemical elements essential to plants,” he stated.
Dr. Singh drew particular attention to this year’s theme, which shifts the focus from traditional rural landscapes to urban environments. He mooted that while soil is often associated with the countryside, urban soil is equally fundamental.
“Beneath asphalt, buildings, and streets lies soil that, if permeable and vegetated, helps absorb rainwater, regulate temperature, store carbon, and improve air quality,” Dr. Singh explained. He warned that sealing soil with cement strips it of these functions, rendering cities vulnerable to flooding, overheating, and pollution. He urged policymakers and citizens alike to “rethink urban spaces from the ground up.”
The Guest of Honour, Shri Khagokpam Sundeep, District Horticulture Officer (DHO), Chandel, described soil as an “inseparable entity” for the planet and a primary means of livelihood. Expressing concern over urbanization-induced degradation, he noted that deforestation has hastened the leaching of organic carbon, ultimately reducing fertility. He strongly encouraged the farming community to adopt organic farming practices to ensure sustainability.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Shri Sp. Lovejoy Anal, District Agriculture Officer (DAO), Chandel, stressed the need to conserve fertility through tree plantation, noting that canopy cover naturally mitigates erosion.
Shri Lovejoy also highlighted the administrative importance of soil maintenance, informing the gathering that Soil Health Cards have become mandatory for availing benefits under various government schemes. He urged farmers to prioritize soil testing to secure these cards.
Dr. Asem Ameeta Devi, Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Chandel, connected agricultural health to public health. “Healthy soils will not only lead to healthy cities but also to healthy citizens,” she remarked, adding that the right balance of macro and micro-nutrients is essential for increasing farm income and providing nutritious food.
The program was attended by officials including Shri Soraisam Suraj (AO, Dept. of Horticulture & Soil Conservation), Dr. Kl. Levish (SMS, Agronomy), Smt. Ts. Leenda Monsang (SMS, Plant Breeding), Smt. Ps. Lavid Anal (Horticulture), and Smt. Lungni Anal (SRF, NICRA Project).
The event concluded with the distribution of Soil Health Cards and vegetable seeds—including onion, coriander, and palak—to the 48 farmers participating in the programme.
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