Jammu, Sept 25: The School Soil Health Card Scheme is gaining significant traction among students in Jammu, aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of soil health and sustainable agricultural practices. Initiated under the guidance of Director Agriculture Jammu, Dr. Arvinder Singh Reen, the scheme involves hands-on activities where students engage directly with soil analysis and conservation.
On Wednesday, a team led by Dr. Neeraj Rajwal, Assistant Soil Chemist at the District Soil Testing Laboratory, alongside Principal Sarsa Ram and local educators, conducted a field visit to Kalyanpur in the Marh sub-division. The initiative focuses on registering farmers and collecting soil samples through a mobile app specifically designed for the program.
The School Soil Health Card Scheme, launched as a pilot project by the Government of India’s Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Department, encourages students to perform experiments, analyze soil samples, and explore the biodiversity within soil ecosystems. According to Dr. Rajwal, this practical engagement will enhance students’ critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and understanding of ecological interconnections.
“This program not only educates students about sustainable agricultural practices but also emphasizes the impact of human activities on soil health,” Dr. Rajwal stated. “Students will collect soil samples, conduct tests in mini-labs set up in their schools, and generate Soil Health Cards to guide farmers on best practices.”
Participating institutions include Kendriya Vidyalaya, Navodaya Vidyalaya, Eklavya Model Schools, and various Government Higher Secondary Schools. The schools are currently being onboarded to the Soil Health Card portal, with training sessions on online registration and batch formation conducted by Agriculture Department officials.
Simran Kumari, an 11th-grade student at Hr. Sec. School Jhiri, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “It’s a welcome step by the Government of India to involve school students in this noble cause. Our school is fortunate to be selected for this project.”
The principal and staff of Hr. Sec. School Jhiri, along with the students, extended their gratitude to the Director of Agriculture Jammu and the District Soil Testing Laboratory team for their guidance and support in this educational endeavor.
