Vol. 10, Issue 9 (2021)

Author(s):
G Anil Kumar Reddy and Dr. Chandra Mohan Mehta

Abstract:
Crop residue is the stuff that remains in the field after crop harvesting and includes leaves, stems, stalks, stubble, pods and so on. Crop residue is a valuable input component for achieving sustainable agriculture because it improves the physicochemical and biotic properties of soil, increases soil fertility, and thereby increases crop productivity. In India, 500 million tonnes of crop residues are generated every year in which rice crop has major part. Farmers burn crop residue to clear fields for succession crops as cost effective method although government is making awareness programs about alternative purpose and restrictions on burning due to the adverse impact they have on the environment. Crop residue incorporation and crop residue retention are two other viable of options crop residue management that include using a portion of surplus residue. Crop residue management can enrich soil fertility and crop yields by sustaining soil organic matter. Crop residue management practices are the most important approach among the nutrient balance approaches. Straw is an asset, not a liability. The review highlights the importance of in-situ crop residue application through crop residue management.