This policy brief presents the results of a TCI study assessing the effects of different soil management techniques on soil health and crop yields, namely no-till farming and the application of organic amendments. Researchers analyzed soil samples from three long-term trials in Bihar. Plots of land were subject to different tillage practices and treated with various amounts of crop residues and manure. They consistently identified positive impacts on soil health from the addition of residue and manure, along with no-till farming practices. The researchers also found that zero-tillage and the addition of residue and manure significantly increased yields in connection with the improvements in soil health.

Based on these results, TCI recommends that policymakers:

• Incentivize farmers to use improved soil management practices, including no-till farming and cycling organic materials.
• Use extension networks to raise awareness of the link between soil health and yields.

Download the policy brief (PDF)