The fertility of soil is the foundation of successful farming. In India, overuse of chemical fertilizers and poor soil management has reduced the productivity of agricultural land in many areas. To solve this problem and promote smart farming, the Government of India launched the Soil Health Card Yojana.
This article explains everything about the Soil Health Card, its benefits, how to apply and why every Indian farmer should use it to improve crop yield and reduce costs.
Table of Contents
📋 What is a Soil Health Card?
A Soil Health Card (SHC) is an official document given to farmers that provides detailed information about the condition of their farmland soil. It includes:
- Nutrient content (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, etc.)
- Soil pH and EC (Electrical Conductivity)
- Organic carbon content
- Micronutrients like Zinc, Iron, Copper, Manganese, Boron
- Fertilizer recommendations based on soil test results
Each card is personalized and specific to the land of the farmer.
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🧑🌾 Why Was the Scheme Launched?
The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The aim was to:
- Promote balanced use of fertilizers
- Improve soil fertility
- Increase crop productivity
- Reduce input costs
- Guide farmers with scientific soil analysis
🎯 Objectives of the Scheme
- Test soil samples of every farm in the country
- Issue soil health cards to all farmers every two years
- Promote sustainable and chemical-free agriculture
- Help farmers choose the right crop and right input for their soil
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🧾 What Information is Included in the SHC Yojana?
The Soil Health Card contains the following:
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Farmer Name | With landholding details |
| Soil Sample Code | Based on GPS location |
| Macronutrients | N, P, K levels |
| Micronutrients | Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn, B |
| pH Level | Acidity or alkalinity of soil |
| Organic Carbon | % content of organic matter |
| EC | Salt content in soil |
| Fertilizer Dose | Suggested amount for crops |
Each card includes custom recommendations based on test results.
📌 Benefits of Soil Health Card
- ✅ Saves money on unnecessary fertilizers
- ✅ Improves crop yield through right nutrients
- ✅ Boosts soil fertility for the long term
- ✅ Helps in choosing better crops for the region
- ✅ Reduces environmental pollution from chemical misuse
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🧪 How is Soil Tested?
The soil is tested in Soil Testing Laboratories set up by:
- Central Government
- State Agriculture Departments
- ICAR Institutions
- Private labs under government approval
Samples are collected from the farmer’s field and tested for 12 key parameters. Based on this, a detailed report is created.
📲 How to Apply for a Soil Health Card?
✅ Offline Process
- Visit your nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) or Block Agriculture Office
- Submit a request for soil testing
- Officials will collect the soil sample or guide you to do it
- After testing, your card will be printed and distributed
✅ Online Process (If available in your state)
- Visit the official portal:
👉 https://soilhealth.dac.gov.in - Click on Farmer Login
- Register with your details and Aadhaar number
- Track your soil sample and download SHC PDF once ready
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📅 When is the Soil Tested?
- Soil is generally tested before sowing or after harvest
- Avoid sample collection during rainy season or when the field is wet
📦 How Often is the SHC Issued?
- Every farmer gets a new Soil Health Card every 2 years
- It is updated based on latest soil tests
🧑💼 Who Can Get a Soil Health Card?
- Small, marginal and large farmers
- Tenant farmers and leaseholders (with permission)
- Group of farmers under FPOs or cooperatives
📞 Where to Get Help?
You can contact your:
- Gram Panchayat agriculture officer
- Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK)
- Soil Testing Lab
- Toll-free helpline: 1800-180-1551
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🧠 Key Points to Remember
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Launched In | 2015 |
| Ministry | Agriculture and Farmers Welfare |
| Card Validity | 3 Years |
| Cost | Free of charge |
| Website | soilhealth.dac.gov.in |
The Soil Health Card Yojana is a farmer-first initiative that can transform the way we farm in India. With rising fertilizer costs and degrading soil, knowing your soil is the first step to sustainable agriculture. If you haven’t tested your soil yet, take a sample today and apply for your SHC.
This one step can improve your income, your soil and your future.
FAQs Related to Soil Health Card Scheme
Q1. What is a Soil Health Card?
A Soil Health Card is an official report that tells a farmer about the nutrient status and health of their soil. It also recommends the right dose of fertilizers and manure.
Q2. How do I apply for a Soil Health Card?
You can apply offline at your nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra or online through https://soilhealth.dac.gov.in.
Q3. Is the Soil Health Card free of cost?
Yes. Soil testing and card issuance under the government scheme are free for all farmers.
Q4. How often is the soil tested?
Soil testing is usually done every two years. The card is updated accordingly.
Q5. What crops can be recommended through SHC?
Recommendations are given for major crops based on soil type such as wheat, paddy, maize, sugarcane, pulses and vegetables.
Q6. Can tenant farmers also apply for SHC?
Yes. If they are cultivating the land and provide proper proof, they are eligible to apply.