Return to Nature’ vital to combat soil fertility decline: Experts

SUKKUR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th Apr, 2026) Agricultural experts in Sindh have expressed concern over the continuous decline in soil fertility and stressed the urgent need to make the farming system sustainable, saying that promoting natural methods is crucial for reviving the agriculture sector.

Experts said the “Return to Nature” strategy is now being prioritized to address the crisis.

They were speaking at a seminar titled Return to Nature: Role of Microorganisms in Soil Fertility and Business Opportunities for Students”, hosted by the Department of Plant Pathology in collaboration with the Pakistan Museum of Natural History (PMNH), Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF), Islamabad on Friday.

Experts noted that a marked decline in soil fertility is being observed in several agricultural areas of Sindh. Key causes include lack of organic matter in soil, continuous mono-cropping, water shortage, and excessive use of chemical fertilizers. These factors are not only reducing crop productivity but also threatening the long-term sustainability of the agricultural system.

In his presidential address, Prof Dr Abdul Mubeen Lodhi, Dean Faculty of Crop Protection, said reducing dependence on chemical methods and adopting eco-system based farming practices is essential for sustainable agriculture.

He added that universities can play a vital role in restoring soil health through research and innovation.

‘Return to Nature’, especially through the use of beneficial soil microorganisms, offers an effective and scientific solution,” he said. “These microbes play a key role in nutrient cycling, decomposition of organic matter, and improving soil structure, which can boost crop yields.”

Delivering the keynote lecture, Dr Muhammad Ismail Bhatti, Curator at PMNH, Pakistan Science Foundation, termed soil microorganisms “nature’s silent engineers.” He urged students to explore business opportunities in bio-fertilizers, compost production, and eco-friendly agricultural technology.

He said that the demand for sustainable agricultural products is rising rapidly in modern farming. This can create new employment and entrepreneurial avenues for youth.

Prof Dr Muhammad Ibrahim Khaskheli, Chairman Department of Plant Pathology, said linking scientific research with field practice is the need of the hour. Without reviving biological activity in soil, the farming system cannot be made strong and sustainable, he added.

Students actively participated in the seminar and asked experts questions about soil restoration, microbial technology and agri startups.