Soil degradation challenges for sustainable agriculture in tropical India

Soil degradation is a pervasive, systemic phenomenon and an urgent priority in order to ensure human well-being, protect biodiversity and ecosystem services. Agriculture sector is frequently affected by soil loss resulting into unproductive soil and lowered crop yields. This article focuses on critical sustainable challenges of Indian agriculture, soil degradation status and mitigation strategies as well as policies and management response options in respect of development of degraded lands. It also provides policymakers with the necessary information to develop appropriate mitigation technologies at the local, regional and national scale.