Impact of Mycorrhizae on Soil Health and Fertility in Maharashtra's Agricultural Lands: A Critical Analysis

Soil degradation and declining fertility pose major threats to agricultural sustainability in Maharashtra, which is one of India's most agriculturally diverse states. Conventional input-intensive farming practices have led to issues such as nutrient depletion, erosion, salinity, and reduced soil organic matter content. Mycorrhizal fungi, particularly arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), offer a promising biological solution by enhancing nutrient uptake, improving soil structure, and fostering microbial diversity. This review critically examines the role of mycorrhizae in improving soil health and fertility across the different agro-climatic regions of Maharashtra. This highlights the mechanisms through which AMF enhance phosphorus availability, reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers, and increase crop productivity and quality. Case studies of crops such as tomatoes, onions, and legumes have demonstrated the practical benefits of AMF inoculation in both rainfed and irrigated systems. The study also explored synergies between mycorrhizae and sustainable practices, such as organic farming, biochar use, composting, and crop rotation. This review concludes by emphasizing the need for region-specific field trials, biotechnology-driven improvements in AMF efficiency, and long-term soil health monitoring. Integrating mycorrhizal applications into climate-resilient agricultural models could play a pivotal role in achieving soil restoration, reducing input costs, and improving the livelihood of smallholder farmers across the state.