Genesis
The Division of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry was approved as a Research Division since the inception of IIHR in 1968. The Division initially focused on nutrient requirements of horticultural crops and development of suitable agro-techniques.
In 1983, it was renamed as the Division of Soil Science with six laboratories: Soil Chemistry, Soil Salinity, Micronutrient, Leaf Analysis, Isotope and Water Management. A Soil Microbiology Laboratory was added in 1984.
With the addition of the Pesticide Residue Laboratory, it was renamed as the Division of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry. A full-fledged Soil Microbiology Lab was established in 2007. In 2021, the Division was renamed as the Division of Natural Resources.
Mandate of the Division
- To conduct research on soil, water and climate related issues for sustainable horticultural production in varied agro-ecological regions of the country.
- To develop improved soil and water management technologies for enhancing input-use efficiency and productivity of horticultural crops.
- To promote conservation and sustainable use of natural resources through integrated land, water and nutrient management in horticulture.
- To assess and mitigate the impact of climate change on horticultural production systems.
Past Heads
Achievements
- Developed crop-specific nutrient requirements for vegetables, fruits, ornamental and medicinal plants.
- Established the first leaf analysis laboratory for horticultural crops to provide need-based fertilizer recommendations.
- Developed leaf nutrient diagnostic norms for major fruit crops and selected ornamental crops.
- Studied root distribution using 32P tracer and identified salt-tolerant rootstocks for mango, grape, citrus, banana, acid lime and papaya.
- Dogridge identified as salt and drought tolerant grape rootstock and popularized in southern states including Maharashtra.
Technologies Developed
Arka Microbial Consortium
NPK biofertilizer consortium developed, evaluated and commercialized.
Arka Fermented Cocopeat
Novel substrate for horticultural crop production.
Arka Actino-Plus
Actinobacterial formulation for plant health management.
Arka Sahishnu
Bacterial inoculant suitable for tomato under deficit irrigation.
Arka Mango / Banana / Vegetable / Citrus Special
Micronutrient formulations for enhanced crop production.
Arka Sasya Poshaka Ras
Nutrient formulation for soilless vegetable and medicinal crop production.
Awards
- Dr. T.R. Rupa – Fertilizer Association of India Best Article Award (2016)
- Dr. Kalaivanan – Dhiru Moraji Memorial Award
- Dr. L.R. Varalakshmi – Excellence Award, ARCC Journals (2022, 2023)
