Soil health is declining in India: Report

Carbon content in India's soil decreases

According to a recent report by a consortium of agriculture institutes, out of 350 million hectares of soil in India, 120 million hectares has already turned problematic, that is, either the soil has turned acidic, saline, or alkaline. The carbon content in the soil is found to be decreasing while the salinity is increasing. Coupled with the excess spraying of fertilisers that affects the nutritional value of the soil, the report suggests that the country is on the verge of a soil crisis that can have a big impact on agriculture productivity, sustainability and also on human health. 

Chhattisgarh plans to link Mahanadi with small rivers

The Chhattisgarh government has initiated work on the interlinking of Mahanadi river with Tandhula and Pairi rivers besides connecting the Rehar-Atem, Ahiran-Kharang and Hasdeo-Kewai rivers so as to boost irrigation and increase farmers' income. However, the state's move has worried the Odisha government who fear that the river interlinking would curtail the flow of the Mahanadi into the state. This aside, in a major setback to Odisha, the Centre has refused to constitute the Mahanadi tribunal to resolve the water dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.

Andhra's Utakallu exemplifies water conservation measures

The Utakallu village that was reeling under severe drought has turned around its water crisis with the intervention of PMKSY-Watershed approach and MGNREGA convergence. With the massive execution of farm ponds, the groundwater level has significantly improved in the region's borewells which has resulted in more area being cultivated. The efforts of the villagers and the District Water Management Agency has earned the village the status of a "model village" with visitors from other districts coming to the village for knowledge enhancement.

Siang river pollution takes a toll on Arunachal's wildlife

Pollution in the pristine Siang river is having its impact on the animals in Daying Ering Wildlife Foundation Eco-Development Society. As per the recent reports, the animals in the sanctuary are either getting sick or dying due to contaminated water and migratory birds are becoming a rarity. In the last few weeks, the Siang river has turned black and construction activity in upstream China is being blamed for it. 

Telangana plans revival of its 19 abandoned water bodies

Under Mission Kakatiya, the Telangana government is planning to revive nearly 19 abandoned water bodies in the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). At an estimated cost of Rs 282 crore, the state government plans to revive the tanks and promote them as recreation centres for local people. There are also plans to construct tank bunds around the water bodies, walking tracks, lighting systems, Bathukamma steps, vehicle parking and boating facilities.  

This is a roundup of important news from December 6 - 12, 2017. Also, read the policy matters this week.