Conservation Agriculture (CA) is a sustainable farming approach addressing declining soil health, resource degradation, and climate change. Defined by minimal soil disturbance, permanent soil cover, and diverse crop rotations, CA improves soil structure, water-holding capacity, and biological activity, enhancing agroecosystem resilience (FAO, 2020; Smith et al., 2019). No-till farming and crop residue retention positively impact crop performance and soil sustainability (Babu et al., 2018). Additionally, permanently raised beds improve soil moisture, minimize waterlogging, and enhance aeration (Yadav et al., 2019). Globally practiced on over 180 million hectares, CA has been adopted on approximately 4 million hectares in India, majorly in the Indo-Gangetic Plains. Zero-tillage and residue management in wheat-rice systems have improved yields, water-use efficiency, and soil carbon levels. Government programs like the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) and advanced tools like happy seeders and laser land levelers have accelerated adoption. Despite its benefits, CA faces challenges, including high initial costs, limited farmer awareness, and region-specific requirements. Addressing these through capacity building, subsidies, and public-private partnerships can enhance adoption. With its potential to improve resource-use efficiency, mitigate climate impacts, and sustain agricultural productivity, CA offers a robust pathway for India’s small and marginal farmers. Scaling up this approach is essential for achieving climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture.
Conservation, Agriculture, Sustainable
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