Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
To promote sustainable agricultural practices, reduce fertilizer costs, and prevent soil degradation, the Government of India (GOI) initiates schemes designed to test and monitor soil nutrient status across agricultural lands.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Soil Health Card (SHC) Scheme was officially launched by the Government of India on February 19, 2015.
It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Suratgarh, Rajasthan, under the slogan "Swasth Dhara, Khet Hara" (Healthy Earth, Green Farm).
The scheme aims to assist farmers in understanding the precise nutrient status of their soil so they can make informed decisions regarding fertilizer application.
Under this scheme, soil samples are collected and tested in authorized laboratories for 12 key parameters:
- Macro-nutrients: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K).
- Secondary-nutrients: Sulphur (S).
- Micro-nutrients: Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Boron (B).
- Physical parameters: pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Organic Carbon (OC).
Based on the analysis, a printed "Soil Health Card" is provided to the farmer detailing the crop-wise recommendations of nutrients and soil amendments required for their fields, reducing indiscriminate chemical fertilizer usage.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched in the year 2015.