Rising concerns over poor soil quality, irregular rainfall and water shortages are driving efforts to find sustainable farming solutions, especially in fragile hill regions. In this context, a recent international study has examined the use of biochar as a low-cost method to improve soil health and conserve water.
The research, led by Nagaland University, focused on farming conditions in Nagaland, where steep slopes often result in rapid rainwater runoff, soil erosion and nutrient loss. Changing weather patterns and rising temperatures have further affected farm productivity in the region, BW Education reported.
Researchers from University of Johannesburg, Amity University Uttar Pradesh and Parul University also contributed to the study.
The findings suggest that biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from agricultural waste, can help retain soil moisture, reduce the need for irrigation and improve soil fertility. It may also help control soil erosion, making it suitable for terrace and slope-based farming systems common in Northeast India.
The study highlights that biochar can be produced from crop residues and other agricultural waste, offering a cost-effective and sustainable option for farmers. Wider use of the material could also reduce crop residue burning, improve crop resilience during dry periods and support long-term carbon storage in soil.
The research has been published in Discover Soil, a peer-reviewed journal by Springer Nature.
Jagadish K Patnaik, Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University, said the study reflects efforts to develop solutions suited to local farming conditions and climate challenges.
The research was led by Prabhakar Sharma from the university, along with Shakir Ali, Anamika Shrivastava and Krishna Kumar Yadav.
Sharma said the study aims to identify locally available materials for producing biochar and evaluate its long-term impact on crop yield, soil condition and water retention in hill farming. He added that the research also looks at whether the method is affordable for small and marginal farmers.
The study noted that most previous research on biochar has focused on general farming conditions, while this work specifically examined its use in steep and terraced landscapes affected by runoff and moisture loss.
The research team plans to carry out pilot projects in villages, terrace farms and horticulture areas. Training programmes for farmers and possible collaboration with government agencies are also being considered to support wider adoption of biochar-based practices.
