According to a study by the Central Agricultural Laboratory, 54.7 percent of soil in Madhesh Province has experienced increased acidity, leading to a significant decline in productivity. The organic matter content in Madhesh’s soil has dropped to 1.94%, whereas healthy soil requires around 5%. To improve soil health and reduce acidity, the government has initiated a program distributing lentil seeds and agricultural lime at a 50% subsidy in Madhesh. (13 Jestha, Kathmandu)
The soil health condition of Madhesh Province, known as Nepal’s granary, is becoming increasingly challenging. On-site studies and soil testing carried out in various districts by the Central Agricultural Laboratory reveal a serious decline in soil productivity. According to Chief Soil Expert Netra Prasad Bhatt, interviews, field observations, and soil sample collections were conducted with farmers from 10 local levels in the Dhanusha and Siraha districts of Madhesh Province.
The study found increased soil hardness, dry conditions, reduced water retention capacity, and poor root development of crops. Bhatt noted that despite significantly increased fertilizer use compared to before, crop yields continue to decline. Although farmers have a basic understanding that soil problems have led to reduced production, their technical knowledge about the underlying causes remains very limited.
