Soil Salinity and Alkalinity (The Professional's Notes Series (PNS))

Volume 03 highlights into the intricate world of soil salinity and alkalinity, addressing the challenges posed by salt-affected soils and the measures to remediate such stressed environments. Salt-affected soils, characterized by high levels of soluble salts, pose significant obstacles to agricultural productivity, ecosystem sustainability, and global food security. In this volume, we explore the criteria used to classify salt-affected soils, including electrical conductivity (EC), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), and exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP). By understanding the indicators of soil salinity and alkalinity, readers gain insights into the extent and severity of soil stress and the potential impacts on soil quality and crop health. The importance of addressing soil salinity and alkalinity cannot be overstated, as these conditions can have far-reaching consequences for global food production. Saline soils can inhibit nutrient uptake by plants, reduce water availability, and induce physiological stress, leading to reduced crop yields and economic losses for farmers. Alkaline soils, characterized by high pH levels, can further exacerbate nutrient deficiencies and hinder plant growth, particularly for acid-sensitive crops. By examining the impacts of salt-affected soils on global food production, we gain a deeper appreciation for the urgency of addressing these soil stresses and promoting sustainable land management practices.

In this volume, we also explore the measures available to remediate salt-affected soils and restore soil fertility and productivity. From leaching and drainage to soil amendments and crop selection, a range of strategies can be employed to mitigate the impacts of soil salinity and alkalinity and promote soil health and resilience. By integrating scientific knowledge with practical solutions, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners can develop tailored approaches to address salt-affected soils, fostering sustainable agriculture and food security for future generations.

Dr. Anandkumar Naorem, currently employed as a scientist at ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute in Jodhpur, India, previously held the position of Head-in-charge at ICAR- CAZRI, RRS-Bhuj, India. He completed his bachelors degree at Assam Agricultural University, Assam, India, and pursued his masters degree in soil microbiology and bioformulation at the College of Post-Graduate Studies, Central Agricultural University, Meghalaya, India. His doctoral research, conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya in West Bengal, India, focused on the remediation of soil heavy metals for safer crop cultivation.

Dr. Naorem, who has authored several national and international publications, has received national recognition, including the 2015 Best Zonal Master;s Thesis award from the Indian Society of Soil Science and the UGC-Maulana Azad National Fellowship for Minority Students (India). He is acknowledged for his contributions as a young scientist by numerous societies and organizations, having led various research projects on soil quality in arid regions, studies on elevated carbon dioxide levels, and investigations into halophytes. Notably, he has played a key role in international initiatives promoting spineless cactus as a dryland feed option in Gujarat.