Rapid Fire
Desert ‘Soilification’ Technology
- 01 Oct 2025
- 2 min read
For the first time, wheat has been successfully grown in the arid desert land of western Rajasthan using an innovative ‘desert soilification technology’.
- About: desert soilification technology is a biotechnological method that converts barren desert sand into a soil-like material capable of sustaining agricultural activities.
- It utilizes bioformulations and polymers to bind loose sand particles, enhance soil structure, and significantly improve water retention.
- Aim: To combat desertification, boost agricultural productivity in arid regions, and promote sustainable land management.
- Key Feature:
- The technology enhances plant tolerance, making crops (wheat, bajra, guar gum) more resilient to heat and arid conditions.
- The polymers form cross-links between sand particles, transforming loose sand into a structured, soil-like material.
- The bioformulation enhances microbial activity, promoting better nutrient cycling and improving overall soil health.
- The researchers observed 54% higher yields in bajra, guar gum, and chickpea crops grown in bioformulation-amended sand compared to regular soil.
- The process creates a binding effect that significantly reduces irrigation needs by improving water retention in the soil.
- Desertification: It is the degradation of land in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas due to natural factors and human activities, leading to reduced productivity and loss of vegetation.
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