A systematic review on carbon sequestration potential of different cropping systems in India

Carbon sequestration in agricultural systems presents a promising avenue for mitigating climate change, with India's vast agricultural sector offering significant potential to contribute to this global effort. This study examines the carbon sequestration potential within Indian agriculture, highlighting its relevance in the context of global greenhouse gas emissions. Through an extensive literature review, it evaluates carbon stocks and sequestration rates across major cropping systems, emphasizing the impact of soil properties, management techniques and climatic conditions. The study identifies significant practices such as integrated nutrient management, conservation agriculture, agroforestry and organic farming, which enhance carbon storage while simultaneously supporting sustainable agricultural systems. However, several challenges limit widespread adoption. These include high initial expenses, a lack of financial incentives, fragmented land ownership and water limitations. Government initiatives aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture are explored, highlighting the necessity for improved support structures and market connections. Despite these challenges, Indian agriculture possesses substantial capacity to contribute to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration, provided that existing barriers are addressed and sustainable practices are implemented at scale.