In Indian context.

This book presents systematic scientific appraisal, classification, genesis and viable technologies for reclamation and management of salt-affected soils and marginal quality waters across India and several other countries. Nature, solubility and geo-chemical mobility of salts have been provided as basis for the development of alkali and saline soils and groundwaters under specific agro-hydro-ecological regions. Chemical amendment (gypsum) based reclamation technology of alkali soils and related pre and post-reclamation water, nutrient and crop management interventions, including re-sodification issues have been comprehensively addressed. Features and operational guidelines of surface, subsurface, vertical and bio-drainage systems have been thoroughly discussed; likewise, amelioration of irrigation induced saline soils in inland and coastal regions and preventive measures for control of salinity and waterlogging along with environmental trade-offs. Practical approaches for amelioration and judicious use of saline, alkali, high SAR- saline and waste waters have been synthesized for different cropping and agro- forestry systems. Emerging issues on use of industrial by-products as amendments for alkali soils, physiological aspects of salt resistance, anatomical and biochemical mechanism of submergence tolerance, specific ion effects of poor quality waters, crop diversification, groundwater recharge, rejuvenation of tsunami affected coastal soils, safety against occurrence of poisonous gas in tube well pits, paddy straw burning and others have been adequately deliberated upon. Combining scientific principles with field experiences, the book is expected to serve as a useful knowledge base for research workers, teachers and students of soil science, agronomy, plant breeding, forestry, irrigation engineering, extension workers, environmentalists and planners associated with reclamation and management of salt affected soils and waters on sustainable basis in developing and developed countries.

After green revolution was launched in India, substantial increase in the production of food-grains was achieved through the use of improved crop varieties and higher levels of inputs like fertilizers water and plant protection chemicals. This made the revolution possible but it has limitations of higher costs and of causing damage to the environment specially when inputs are not used efficiently and judiciously. A decline of yields are being reported from the green revolution belts of India, in spite of liberal application of fertilizers and other inputs. The environmental problems are now becoming real problems of the developing countries as well as developing world. This disturbing trend is attributed to soil degradation, multi nutrient deficiencies and pest and diseases build up. The use of chemical inputs increases yields for a limited period, but without good management there is rapid deterioration of land and water resources. Inefficient use of fertilizers results in polluting the environment, in addition to wastage of scarce resource. It is therefore, imperative to conserve and utilize optimally the available production resources like land, water and genetic diversity and to efficiently manage the agricultural inputs for sustaining high crop productivity on a long term basis, with minimum damage to ecological and socio-economic environment. In this context, publication of a reference book is timely and appropriate. As the scientists, students, planners, administrators and extensionists recognize the importance of environmental problems related to agriculture, but they need ready reference to learn more about the problems, plan research agenda and develop strategies to tackle the problems. Hence, an attempt has been made to compile the information and presents in a readable form in this book. The book not only covers the effect of excessive use of chemical inputs on environment but also the effect of other human activities on agricultural production. It is sure that the book will be of immense use of post-graduate students and research workers in agricultural and environmental sciences, extension workers, progressive farmers, officials of the department of agriculture, environment and pollution control board administrators, planners and policy makers and the technical staff working in the agricultural input industry.

This work features scientific, technical and practical information on mineral, organic and synthetic conditioners, as well as their beneficial effects on the soil's physical properties that promote optimal plant growth, maximize soil fertility, and enhance biomediation processes. It promotes the synergistic use of various agricultural technologies to manage global concerns of decreasing arable land.

Transcript of lectures.