Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 05 December 2025
ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), North & Middle Andaman, observed World Soil Day 2025 by organizing an awareness programme at PM Shri Government Senior Secondary School, Swadeshnagar, today. The event centred around this year’s global theme, “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities,” highlighting the crucial link between soil health and sustainable development.
Addressing the gathering, Er. Manoj Kumar, Subject Matter Specialist (Agricultural Engineering), spoke on soil formation processes and the importance of soil conservation. He explained how factors such as organic matter, weathering, biological activity and climate contribute to soil development. Stressing the need to protect soil from degradation, he encouraged practices including mulching, contour farming and afforestation. He also urged students to support sustainable agriculture through organic inputs and eco-friendly farming techniques. Soil, he said, must be regarded as a living resource vital to human existence.
In another session, Mr. Yatharth Sharma, Subject Matter Specialist (Home Science), conducted an interactive discussion on innovative community-led approaches to prevent soil degradation. He emphasized the shared responsibility of citizens, farmers, and institutions in protecting soil resources to build healthier and greener cities.
The organizers expressed gratitude to Vice Principal Mr. Saleem Kerketta for facilitating the event and motivating students to participate.
The programme was held under the guidance of Dr. Jai Sunder, Director (Acting), ICAR–CIARI, Sri Vijaya Puram, and saw the participation of 56 students and faculty members.
The observance concluded with a strong message: safeguarding soil health is essential not only for agricultural sustainability but also for future-ready, climate-resilient cities.
