Assessing soil testing awareness and practices among farmers in Sitapur: Implications for sustainable agriculture

Abstract

Soil health is a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, influencing crop yield, nutrient management, and overall agricultural productivity. Despite its importance, soil testing remains underutilized among rural farmers in India. This study, conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra-II, Sitapur, examines soil testing practices and awareness among 138 farmers from seven villages in the Biswan block of Sitapur district, Uttar Pradesh. Data were collected on farmers’ demographics, awareness of soil testing, barriers to adoption, and the impact of soil testing on agricultural practices. The results reveal that 73.9% of farmers have never conducted soil tests, primarily due to a lack of information (63.8%) and the unavailability of nearby laboratories (23.2%). However, 95.7% expressed interest in future soil testing, indicating a growing recognition of its importance. Soil test results from 36 farmers showed that 58.3% of soils were deficient in organic carbon, and 41.7% had low levels of available phosphorus. Statistical analyses, including chisquare tests and regression analysis, revealed significant associations between education level, landholding size, and soil testing adoption. These findings underscore the need for targeted outreach, accessible soil testing facilities, and enhanced extension services to promote sustainable farming practices in rural areas.