In a significant achievement, scientists from the ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute (CSSRI) have developed alkalinity neutralizers to enable vegetable cultivation using alkaline water. This innovation could revolutionize agricultural practices in regions with underground alkaline water sources, addressing issues like water scarcity and low productivity.
According to data provided by the scientists, around 30% of groundwater resources in Haryana and Punjab — key contributors to the nation's food grain supply — are affected by varying levels of alkalinity. The use of alkaline water has long been a challenge in agriculture, leading to soil sodification, reduced crop productivity, and increased costs.
"Our scientists have succeeded in producing vegetables in such water," said Dr RK Yadav, Director, ICAR-CSSRI. He added that this development would enable the expansion of vegetable cultivation and diversification in areas previously considered unsuitable.
The milestone is part of a Department of Science and Technology (DST)-funded project that began in 2020. A dedicated team of scientists, including Dr. Nirmalendu Basak, Dr. Arvind Kumar Rai, Dr. Parul Sundha, Dr. Priyanka Chandra, Dr. Satyendra Kumar, Dr. Ranjay Kumar Singh, Dr. Rajendra Kumar Yadav, and Dr. Parbodh Chander Sharma, worked tirelessly for four years to develop the neutralizers.
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