Development of Microbiome for the regeneration of soil organic matter to stabilize the disturbed and undisturbed areas of Nellyampathy and Attapadi
This study aimed to address the significant impact of floods and landslides on the agricultural productivity of Attapadi and Nelliyampathy in the Palakkad district, Kerala. These natural calamities have led to severe soil nutrient depletion and reduced microbial populations, resulting in large uncultivated areas and decreased crop yields. The primary goal was to develop an effective microbial consortium to replenish soil organic matter, enhance soil fertility, and boost agricultural output. By comparing disturbed and undisturbed soil samples, the research identified critical deficiencies in soil nutrients and microbial populations, particularly in landslide-affected areas. The study selected twelve microbial isolates with multi-functional enzyme activities and plant growth-promoting traits, forming three consortia for evaluation. The results showed that specific consortia, combined with 50% inorganic fertilizers, significantly improved soil health and productivity. This research is highly relevant as it offers a sustainable solution to rehabilitate disaster-affected soils, potentially reducing the reliance on inorganic fertilizers by half. It underscores the importance of targeted microbial interventions to restore soil health and ensure the resilience and sustainability of agricultural practices in regions prone to natural disasters.