Management of calcareous soils of Ushar lands of North Bihar plain

Abstract

Calcareous soils of Ushar lands of North Bihar under Indo-Gangetic plain were characterized for their management towards boosting up livelihood security of the farmers of the region. High pH (> 8.5), high calcareousness (> 35%) and low organic carbon (< 0.5%) along with severe flood hazards and siltation are the major constraints for agricultural production. As per the land suitability assessment, crop diversification is highly promising in young alluvial plains. However, in meander plains and active flood plains (Tall lands), there have been certain physical and chemical limitations for crop choices. Makkhana, organized bund fishery and integrated paddy-fishery are the good replacement for sugarcane in meander plains and Tall lands. Mango and litchi plantation is highly promising in young alluvial plains. Char lands (Diara lands) can be grown for rabi vegetables with appropriate soil and water conservation measures. Impact assessment of soil resource inventory based land use plan with best management practice (BMP) has shown an increase in annual net returns by 93.2% and benefit to cost ratio by 20.6% from the traditional land use system with poor level of management.