Karaikal agri institute plans to offer soil health testing to local farmers

Dean A. Pouchepparadjou and Associate Professor K. Coumaravel with the advanced Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP-AES) at PAJANCOA & RI, Karaikal.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The Puducherry Agricultural College and Research Institute (PAJANCOA & RI) in Karaikal plans to extend the use of its advanced Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP-AES) to local farmers, enabling them to make informed decisions based on accurate soil health analysis.

The ₹43.5 lakh MP-AES machine, inaugurated in August 2023, is being used by students to assess nutrient levels in soil, food, crops, and fertilizers. The institution now plans to allow nearby farmers to access this facility and gain scientific insights into their soil conditions.

“We have the most advanced equipment of this kind in the Puducherry Union Territory. Even nearby districts such as Nagapattinam and Tiruvarur lack such infrastructure,” said Dean A. Pouchepparadjou. “Our students benefit from it already, and we now plan to help local farmers analyse their soil for better crop outcomes.”

K. Coumaravel, Associate Professor of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, said misuse or overuse of fertilisers has contributed to ongoing soil degradation. “Most farmers rely on informal advice. Scientific testing is crucial,” he said.

The MP-AES identifies key micronutrients such as zinc, copper, manganese, and iron. “By detecting what is deficient or in excess, farmers can adopt targeted nutrient management practices,” Dr. Coumaravel added.

He emphasised that routine soil testing before cultivation can improve yields and promote sustainable farming.