Sustainable Agricultural Practices for Soil Conservation

Abstract: Soil degradation in Nagpur, driven by water-induced erosion, nutrient depletion, and intensive farming, threatens agricultural productivity in this semi-arid region. This report evaluates sustainable agricultural practices—conservation tillage, cover cropping, and agroforestry—for soil conservation, tailored to Nagpur’s black cotton soils and monsoon climate. Field experiments conducted in Nagpur’s rural areas (2020–2025) demonstrate that conservation tillage reduces soil erosion by 35– 40%, cover cropping increases soil organic carbon (SOC) by 15–20%, and agroforestry enhances soil moisture retention by 18– 22%. Socio-economic surveys of 200 local farmers indicate that 70% face adoption barriers due to high costs and limited technical knowledge. We propose localized strategies, including subsidized equipment, seed banks, and extension services, to promote these practices. These findings underscore the potential of sustainable practices to enhance soil health and ensure longterm agricultural resilience in Nagpur.