Biochar stands at the forefront of sustainable agricultural practices in Telangana, India, offering a holistic solution to soil degradation, climate change mitigation, and waste management. As awareness grows and technology advances, biochar holds the promise of transforming Indian agriculture into a more resilient, productive and environmentally friendly sector. Embracing biochar agriculture is not just a step towards sustainable farming, it's a leap towards a greener future for generations to come.
The widespread adoption of biochar faces certain challenges such as awareness among farmers and integration into existing agricultural practices. Welspun Foundation & Better Cotton are actively promoting biochar adoption through awareness campaigns, training programs and technology transfer.
Biochar is a charcoal-like substance that is made by burning organic material from agriculture. Natural biochar formation occurs in the aftermath of forest fires when vegetation is left to smoulder in layers on the forest floor. It demonstrates remarkable potential in improving soil fertility and structure. Studies have shown positive correlations between biochar application and enhanced crop yields. By reducing the leaching of critical nutrients and promoting nutrient uptake, biochar contributes to soil health and resilience, fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
Biochar carbon remains in the ground for centuries, slowing the growth in atmospheric greenhouse gas levels. Simultaneously, its presence in the earth can improve water quality, increase soil fertility and raise agricultural productivity.
To increase crop productivity and soil fertility, Biochar fertilizer can be applied to the soil. Biochar is a solid carbon-rich product produced from biomass of agricultural crop residues, wastes, and wood in an oxygen-deficient condition.
Method of Application: Biochar can be applied to the soil by different methods including broadcasting, band application, spot placement, deep banding etc. However, the method of biochar application in soil depends on the farming system, available machinery and labour. Application of biochar by hand is not viable on a large scale because of labour intensity.
Low Rates of Application 3 t/ha are technically possible and the process is relatively labour intensive. Mixing of biochar with composts and manures may reduce odour and improve nutrient performance over time due to slower leaching rates.
Adoption Challenges and Future Prospects: Despite its numerous benefits, the widespread adoption of biochar faces certain challenges such as awareness among farmers, access to technology and resources for biochar production and integration into existing agricultural practices. However, initiatives by government agencies, research institutions and agricultural organisations are actively promoting biochar adoption through awareness campaigns, training programs and technology transfer.
As part of a collaborative effort with the Better Cotton Initiative, Welspun Living has partnered with progressive farmers who are early adopters of biochar agriculture. On April 15, these farmers held a demonstration proving the eco-friendly nature of biochar farming and set an example for other farmers across the country to be imaginative and explore it as a means of sustainable farming. The demonstration was a success and admired by many farmers in these regions. While biochar farming is still in its nascent stages, this demonstration is an encouraging sign that it could be the way forward for the agriculture sector.
