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Dr. Aniruddha Babar, Academician and Independent Researcher. Director, “Project Constitutional Justice- A People’s Initiative”, Tuensang, State of Nagaland, India.
AT Kabul: In my extensive readings on Afghanistan, I have often come across studies, research papers, and historical accounts that discuss the country’s agricultural challenges and potential. These documents provide a necessary insight into the struggles Afghan farmers face in sustaining their livelihoods amidst an arid climate, soil degradation, and geopolitical instability. While I am not an agricultural expert, these readings have led me to ponder whether Afghanistan could harness its natural resources to become a self-sufficient agricultural economy. Given the vast stretches of land that remain underutilised and the historical significance of farming in the region, I believe that with a strategic and scientific approach, Afghanistan has the potential to revitalise its soil, enhance agricultural productivity, and establish a sustainable agricultural economy. The question is not merely whether Afghanistan can achieve this transformation but rather how it can be done effectively.
Afghanistan, a land of rugged mountains and expansive arid plains, has long struggled with soil fertility, restricting its agricultural output and economic growth. The nation’s reliance on subsistence farming and traditional techniques, coupled with decades of conflict and environmental degradation, has left its soils depleted of essential nutrients. However, with a systematic and scientific approach, Afghanistan can restore its lands and transform agriculture into a thriving sector that significantly contributes to its economy. The key to improving soil fertility lies in understanding its composition, addressing nutrient deficiencies, and implementing modern agricultural techniques that enhance productivity while ensuring sustainability.
The first step in improving Afghanistan’s soil fertility is conducting a thorough assessment of its current condition. Much of the country’s soil is dry, with high levels of salinity and alkalinity due to inefficient irrigation and inadequate drainage systems. Many regions suffer from severe erosion, particularly where deforestation and overgrazing have stripped the land of protective vegetation. The organic matter content in the soil is frequently low, resulting in poor water retention and diminished microbial activity. Conducting extensive soil tests across different regions can help identify specific deficiencies, allowing for targeted interventions. Government agencies, in collaboration with universities and agricultural research centres, should establish soil testing laboratories and train farmers on how to interpret results and apply appropriate soil amendments. Addressing these fundamental issues will create a foundation upon which more advanced agricultural strategies can be built.
One of the most effective ways to enhance soil fertility is through the incorporation of organic matter. Composting is a traditional practice that can be expanded on a broader scale. Farmers can utilise crop residues, animal manure, and household organic waste to create nutrient-rich compost that improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention, and stimulates microbial activity. Vermicomposting, which involves the use of earthworms to break down organic waste, can further enrich soil quality by producing worm castings teeming with essential nutrients. Additionally, green manure, whereby leguminous cover crops are grown and then ploughed back into the soil, can naturally replenish nitrogen levels, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilisers. These organic methods not only increase soil fertility but also promote long-term sustainability.
Beyond organic matter, Afghanistan’s soils require balanced nutrient management. Chemical fertilisers, if applied correctly, can provide an immediate boost to soil fertility. However, indiscriminate use can lead to soil degradation and water contamination. A balanced approach entails using nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in appropriate proportions based on soil test recommendations. Micronutrients such as zinc, boron, and iron must also be considered, as deficiencies in these elements can hinder crop growth. Farmers should receive training on precision fertilisation techniques, including the use of slow-release fertilisers and fertigation, whereby nutrients are delivered through irrigation systems, ensuring efficient uptake by plants. Proper application of fertilisers will ensure that soil fertility is maintained without compromising environmental health.
Water management plays a crucial role in soil fertility. Afghanistan’s agriculture is heavily dependent on irrigation, yet inefficient water use contributes to salinisation and waterlogging, further degrading soil health. Implementing modern irrigation techniques such as drip and sprinkler irrigation can optimise water use, preventing excessive moisture from leaching nutrients or causing soil compaction. Rainwater harvesting, through the construction of small check dams and storage ponds, can supplement irrigation during dry periods. Additionally, introducing drought-resistant crops and crop varieties adapted to saline soils can ensure productivity even in challenging conditions. Water conservation, when coupled with efficient irrigation, can significantly improve soil quality and agricultural yields.
Soil conservation measures are essential to prevent erosion and maintain long-term fertility. Terracing on hilly terrain can reduce runoff and retain soil, while agroforestry practices, whereby trees and shrubs are planted alongside crops, can enhance soil stability and provide additional sources of income. Windbreaks made of native vegetation can protect fields from wind erosion, a prevalent issue in Afghanistan’s arid regions. Mulching, wherein organic or synthetic materials are spread over the soil surface, can reduce evaporation, suppress weed growth, and improve soil structure. Encouraging farmers to adopt conservation tillage practices, such as minimum or zero tillage, can further enhance soil health by preserving soil microorganisms and preventing compaction. These measures, when integrated effectively, can prevent soil depletion and promote long-term agricultural success.
Crop rotation and diversification are vital strategies for maintaining soil fertility. The traditional practice of monoculture, where the same crop is grown repeatedly on the same land, depletes specific nutrients and increases vulnerability to pests and diseases. Introducing crop rotation, whereby different crops are grown in successive seasons, can naturally replenish soil nutrients and disrupt pest cycles. Leguminous crops such as lentils, chickpeas, and alfalfa can fix atmospheric nitrogen, enriching the soil for subsequent crops. Intercropping, where multiple crops are cultivated together, can further enhance biodiversity, improve soil structure, and optimise resource use. By shifting towards more diverse farming practices, Afghan farmers can ensure sustained productivity and soil health.
India, as a neighbouring country with significant agricultural expertise, can provide valuable insights and support in Afghanistan’s efforts to improve soil fertility. India has successfully implemented large-scale organic farming initiatives, advanced irrigation techniques, and soil health card schemes to assess and improve soil quality. Collaboration between Afghanistan and India in the form of knowledge exchange programmes, joint research projects, and agricultural training for Afghan farmers can accelerate soil fertility improvement. Indian agricultural universities and institutions can play a pivotal role in providing technical assistance and expertise, particularly in dryland farming techniques suited for arid regions similar to Afghanistan’s terrain. Moreover, India’s experience in community-driven watershed management projects can be adapted to improve water conservation and soil health in Afghanistan’s agricultural zones. The partnership between the two nations can serve as a strong foundation for Afghanistan’s agricultural advancement.
Biological solutions can play a significant role in improving soil fertility. Beneficial soil microbes, including mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria, can enhance nutrient uptake and improve soil structure. Biofertilisers, which contain live microorganisms, can be introduced to boost soil health naturally. For example, Rhizobium bacteria can improve nitrogen availability in legume crops, while phosphate-solubilising bacteria can enhance phosphorus uptake. Encouraging farmers to use biofertilisers rather than relying solely on chemical inputs can lead to sustainable improvements in soil fertility. These biological interventions can complement organic and traditional methods to create a well-rounded soil management strategy.
Afghanistan’s journey towards improved soil fertility and a strong agricultural economy requires a multi-faceted approach. By integrating organic matter, balanced fertilisation, efficient water management, soil conservation, crop diversification, biological solutions, traditional knowledge, and supportive policies, the country can transform its barren lands into fertile fields. With sustained efforts and collaboration between farmers, researchers, policymakers, and international partners, Afghanistan can achieve food security, enhance livelihoods, and build a robust agricultural sector that drives economic growth.
