Overcome the constraints faced by paddy growers in utilizing soil health card in north coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Soil test based nutrient management has become a major concern in attempts to boost agricultural production and productivity since soil analysis-based optimal fertiliser utilisation can boost crop productivity and reduce nutrient waste, reducing environmental impact and bias through optimal production. Governments use Soil Health Cards to help with these. The current study conducted in Srikakulam and Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh during 2023-24. The main objective is overcome the problems by paddy growers in utilizing soil health card and to seek suggestions from them. The findings were indicated the primary challenges faced by paddy growers is the time gap between soil samples taken and issuing cards is too long received highest mean score of 2.65 and ranked first. Accordingly significant problems highlighted includes the Received soil health cards after crop harvest and Difficulty in calculating fertilizer dose on the basis of the nutrient status of soil both ranked second with same mean score of 2.61, Unavailability of laboratory ranked third, Unable to operate internet ranked fourth, Unavailability of proper internet ranked five. The suggestions are given by paddy growers were Crop wise recommended dose of fertilizer should be given ranked first, availability of micronutrient status should be displayed ranked second, SHC should be issued prior to crop season ranked third, Soil testing laboratory should be established at Mandal level with highly qualified supporting staff ranked four, the farmers should be trained to take soil sample of its own ranked five, Soil sampling procedure should be done in presence of farmer is ranked six.