Soil organic carbon (SOC) is the carbon that remains in soil after partial decomposition of organic matter from living organisms.

 Soil organic carbon (SOC) is the carbon that remains in soil after partial decomposition of organic matter from living organisms. SOC is a key component of soil organic matter and affects soil structure, fertility, and water retention capacity. 

 

Here are some facts about SOC in India: 

 

SOC content has decreased

In the last 70 years, the SOC content in India has decreased from 1% to 0.3%. This is a cause for concern for the agriculture sector. 

 

SOC content varies by region

The SOC content varies by region in India, with the highest content in the Northern Mountains and the lowest in the Great Plains. 

 

SOC content is affected by land use

The SOC content is affected by land use, with natural forests having the highest SOC content. Jhum land has the lowest SOC content. 

 

SOC content is affected by management practices

Intensive tillage accelerates decomposition and reduces carbon content. Integrated nutrient supply promotes restoration and retention. 

 

SOC content is important for climate change

SOC is important for regulating climate change and ecosystem services. India has pledged to create a carbon sink of 2.5-3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent by 2030 to reduce greenhous

e gas emissions.