Soilification Technology Enables Wheat Farming in Desert
The Central University of Rajasthan (CUoR) has pioneered a breakthrough in desert agriculture by successfully growing wheat in the arid lands of western Rajasthan. Using an indigenous bioformulation-based soilification technology, researchers transformed desert sand into fertile soil. This experiment could halt the expansion of the Thar desert towards the National Capital Region by making barren lands agriculturally productive.
Background of Desertification in Rajasthan
The Thar desert is expanding due to the degradation of the Aravali ranges, changing rainfall patterns, and unscientific plantation efforts. These factors have accelerated desertification, severely affecting agriculture and local livelihoods. The need for sustainable farming solutions in these arid zones has become urgent.
Soilification Technology Explained
Soilification involves modifying desert sand into soil-like material using polymers and bioformulations. The bioformulation enhances water retention, promotes cross-linking of sand particles, and stimulates beneficial microbes. This creates a favourable environment for crops to grow despite harsh desert conditions.
Wheat Cultivation Experiment Details
In November 2024, CUoR researchers sowed 13 kg of indigenous wheat-4079 seeds on 1,000 sq. metres of desert land in Banseli village near Pushkar. The bioformulation reduced irrigation needs to three cycles during the crop cycle. By April 2025, the wheat yield was 26 kg per 100 sq. metres, with a seed-to-harvest ratio of 1:20, double that of typical arid land wheat farming.
Role of Supporting Agencies
The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and the Rajasthan State Horticulture Department supported the project. KVK designed the field layout and helped scale the trials in real desert conditions. This collaboration demonstrated the potential for applied science to create societal impact in desert agriculture.
Additional Crop Trials and Future Plans
CUoR also tested bajra, guar gum, and chickpea in polymer-amended sand on campus with 54% higher yields than untreated sand. Encouraged by these results, the university plans to expand soilification technology to other dryland crops like millet and green gram across Rajasthan and similar regions.
Significance of Water Efficiency
The bioformulation’s ability to reduce irrigation cycles from five or six to three or four is crucial in water-scarce desert areas. This water retention capacity not only conserves precious resources but also ensures healthy crop growth under stress conditions.
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