Image Source : The Hans India
World Soil Day on Dec 5 underscores protecting soil as key to securing water filtration, carbon sequestration, and food systems amid threats like erosion and urbanization. Healthy soils sustain 95% of global food, regulate climate, and support biodiversity—urging sustainable practices for resilient futures.
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Soil's Lifeline Role
Observed annually on December 5 since FAO's 2014 endorsement, World Soil Day spotlights soil's foundational functions: filtering water, storing carbon to combat climate change, moderating temperatures, and hosting 59% of Earth's species. Degraded soils exacerbate "hidden hunger" for 2 billion people via nutrient-poor crops, while urbanization seals vital ground. India's initiatives like Soil Health Cards and afforestation counter erosion and fertility loss in diverse agri-climatic zones.
Key Highlights
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Water Guardian: Acts as natural filter, enhances infiltration to prevent scarcity and flooding.
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Climate Ally: Major carbon sink; regenerative practices boost sequestration amid SOC decline to 0.3% in India.
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Food & Bio Anchor: Underpins 95% of nutrition; threats from chemicals, monoculture demand organic shifts.
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Action Imperative: Promote no-till, cover crops, policy incentives; urban "unsealing" for green cities.
Sources: Reuters (RTRS), FAO, DownToEarth, UN
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