ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Vasad celebrated “World Soil Day” on 05 December 2024 along with one month in-plant training programme of B.Tech., (Agrl. Eng..) students. 27 young students participated in the event. Dr. Gaurav Singh, Scientist (LWME) welcomed the gathering and addressed the Soil Day celebrations as awareness activities of the Centre. Dr. Dinesh Jinger, Scientist stressed that soil quality is the fundamental basis of human health. Senior Scientist Dr. D. Dinesh spoke about the significance of World Soil Day celebrations across the world and this year’s theme ‘Caring for Soil: Measurement, Monitoring and Management’ and the importance of soil health management at farmers’ field level for the benefit of future generations. Dr. MJ Kaledhonkar, head of the centre, described the importance of earth and water elements and its integration as the need of the hour. He also stressed on the judicious use of chemical fertilizers/pesticides to maintain ecosystem services and sustainable productivity.

Chief guest Dr. R. Subbaiah, Dean, College of Agricultural Engineering Technology, CAET, AAU, Godhra urged the students that they should consider soil and water conservation structure/design strategies in view of the climate change scenario.Guest of honor Ms. Jenny Makwana, Project Officer, NDDB Mrida Limited, Anand explained how NDDB Mrida Limited is converting cowshed waste material and its byproducts into wealth product through biogas and slurry material, also supporting soil nutrients recycling system. The programme was conducted and coordinated by Dr. D. Dinesh and concluded with formal vote of thanks by Dr. Nanda Kumar N. Mr. Ram Pratap (Technician) and Mr. Ankit Sukhwal (Technician) helped in organizing the event successfully.