Conservation Tillage Practices and Their Role in Sustainable Farming Systems
Minakshi Bezboruah
Department of Agronomy, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat -13, India.
Satish K. Sharma
RHRSS SKUAST Jammu – 182222, India.
Thejavath Laxman
District Agriculture and Transfer of Technology Center (DAATTC), ARS, Tandur, Professor JayaShankar Telangana state Agriculture University, Vikarabad District, Pin code 501 141, India.
S. Ramesh
Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamlai University, Annamlai Nagar, Tamil Nadu, India.
T. Sampathkumar
Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai – 625104, India.
Shani Gulaiya
Galgotias University, Greater Noida (U. P), India.
G. Malathi
Horticultural Research Station, Yercaud, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
S.Anandha Krishnaveni *
Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Trichy - 620 027, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Conservation tillage practices have become increasingly recognized as crucial strategies in the effort to achieve sustainable farming systems. These practices, which include methods such as notill, striptill, mulchtill, and ridgetill, aim to minimize soil disturbance, thereby promoting a range of environmental, economic, and agronomic benefits. This review article delves into the different types of conservation tillage practices, elaborating on their specific techniques, advantages, and potential drawbacks. It examines how these practices influence soil health by enhancing soil structure, increasing organic matter, and fostering biodiversity. Furthermore, the article discusses the impact of conservation tillage on crop productivity, highlighting both the yield benefits and the challenges related to pest and weed management. The role of conservation tillage in mitigating environmental issues such as soil erosion, water conservation, and greenhouse gas emissions is also explored in depth. Through a synthesis of recent research findings and case studies, this article provides a thorough analysis of the contributions of conservation tillage to sustainable agriculture. It also offers practical recommendations for farmers, policymakers, and researchers to optimize the adoption and effectiveness of conservation tillage practices, ultimately aiming to support a transition towards more resilient and sustainable farming systems.
Keywords: Conservation tillage, sustainable agriculture, NoTill farming, soil health, crop productivity, environmental sustainability, soil erosion, water conservation, weed management