Patna: With rising use of chemical fertilizers and agrochemicals increasingly affecting soil health, the Bihar government has intensified efforts to promote scientific farming by strengthening soil testing across the state. As part of this initiative, the Agriculture Department has already tested nearly two lakh soil samples in the current financial year 2025–26, helping farmers better understand the nutritional status of their land.
Statewide Soil Testing to Improve Farm Productivity
According to the Agriculture Department, a total of 2.53 lakh soil samples have been collected so far, out of which 1.87 lakh samples have been analyzed and Soil Health Cards issued to farmers. These cards—provided once every three years—guide farmers on the required type and quantity of fertilizers based on the actual nutrient profile of their soil. This scientific recommendation system helps reduce input costs while increasing farm productivity.
Last year alone, Bihar tested over 5 lakh soil samples, demonstrating the state’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
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Extensive Network of Soil Testing Laboratories
To ensure efficient and timely services for farmers, Bihar has developed an extensive soil testing infrastructure. Currently, the state operates:
- 38 district-level soil testing laboratories
- 14 sub-division level laboratories
- 9 mobile soil testing labs
- 3 referral laboratories for quality control
To further expand local access, the government is establishing 32 new sub-division level soil testing laboratories in the financial year 2025–26.
Digital Initiatives for Better Farmer Outreach
The Agriculture Department is also working on creating a Digital Soil Fertility Map to streamline soil sample collection across all regions. Additionally, for the convenience of farmers, Soil Health Cards are now being shared via WhatsApp, ensuring quick and hassle-free access.
Each online Soil Health Card includes fertilizer recommendations for nearly 106 crops, empowering farmers to adopt balanced nutrition management. With the help of these recommendations, farmers are increasingly using organic inputs and bio-fertilizers, moving toward integrated nutrient management.
Soil Testing Helps Restore Nutrient Balance
Experts emphasize that indiscriminate use of fertilizers like urea, nitrogen, and phosphorus has led to deficiency of micronutrients, resulting in declining soil productivity. Soil testing helps farmers avoid unnecessary fertilizer use and replenish essential nutrients in the right proportion.
“Farmers often rely on limited fertilizers such as nitrogen, urea, and phosphorus, leading to micronutrient deficiencies in soil and reduced productivity. Soil testing prevents excessive use of fertilizers and helps supply the required nutrients. This reduces costs, increases yield, and supports environmental conservation,”
said Dr. Arnab Kundu, Assistant Professor, Rajendra Agricultural University, Pusa.
Bihar Farmers Moving Toward Sustainable Agriculture
Through expanded lab capacity, digital services, and scientific monitoring, Bihar is enabling farmers to take better care of the soil that sustains their livelihoods. With continued focus on soil health, the state aims to boost agricultural productivity while promoting long-term ecological balance.
