K.R. Mangalam University Hosts Bhumi Suposhan for One Health Initiative to Promote Soil and Human Health

Vijay Gaur Channel Head - Delhi

The School of Agricultural Sciences (SOAS), K.R. Mangalam University, the Youth Red Cross Committee in collaboration with Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, and Akshay Krishi Parivar, successfully organized a significant awareness programme titled “Bhumi Suposhan for One Health: A Health Awareness Initiative.”

The programme was conceptualized to highlight the critical interconnection between soil health, food quality, and human well-being, aligning with the globally recognized One Health approach.

The event commenced with a traditional Lamp Lighting Ceremony and Bhumi Pujan, symbolizing knowledge, sustainability, and harmony with nature. Distinguished dignitaries were felicitated by faculty members of SOAS.
Delivering the opening address, Prof. J. S. Yadav, Dean, School of Agricultural Sciences, emphasized the importance of soil health ,integrating agricultural education with innovation, practical exposure, and sustainability-driven approaches. 

The Bhoomi Suposhan Programme reflects our collective commitment toward sustainable agriculture, soil health, and community well-being. At a time when environmental challenges and food security concerns are becoming increasingly critical, such initiatives play a vital role in spreading awareness and encouraging practical solutions.

Dr. Alok Kumar Gupta, National Co-ordinator, Bhumi Suposhan & Samrakshan Jan Abhiyan, Akshay Krishi Parivar, delivered a detailed and insightful address highlighting the urgent need for soil health restoration and its direct implications on food security and public health. He gave accounts of how our soil was degraded over the years. He also suggested various ways and means to improve the soil health so that biodiversity, flora and fauna might be improve by adopting organic and natural farming practices

The programme was further enriched by the visionary address of Prof. Mehraj Uddin Mir, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, K.R. Mangalam University, who underscored the pivotal role of academic institutions in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable agricultural practices and appreciated the initiatives of School of Agricultural Sciences

In his passionate short speech, Bureau Chief Vijay Gaur said that love for the motherland is the hallmark of true citizenship and commitment towards awareness land - nutrition is the need of the hour. He expressed his immense love for the motherland in the lines of the poet and amidst thunderous applause, he said, "I have dedicated my body, my mind and this life. I want to give you something more, Motherland."

As part of the expert session, Dr. Agnibha Sinha, Assistant Professor, SOAS, delivered a talk on “Agronomic Interventions for Maintaining Soil Health,” focusing on practical and sustainable farming techniques.

Dr Parul Sharma, Asstt. Professor of Physiotherapy from DPSRU said that soil is not a resource to exploit, but a mother to nurture. The earth gives us everything, keeping it healthy is our responsibility. In essence, Bhumi Suposhan aligns perfectly with the scientific understanding of soil microbiome.

Dr. Rashi Gupta Asstt. Professor DPSRU told that Today we all have gathered to discuss about something that lies beneath our feet, yet sustains all life on Earth — the soil microbiome, and the timeless Indian concept of Bhumi Suposhan.
Soil is not just dirt. It is a living, breathing ecosystem. Billions of microorganisms — bacteria, fungi, protozoa — exist in just a handful of soil. These microbes play a critical role in nutrient cycling, plant growth, disease suppression, and maintaining ecological balance.
If soil is the body, then the microbiome is its soul.
In modern agriculture, we often focus on chemical inputs — fertilizers and pesticides — but ignore the living component of soil. This imbalance leads to degradation, reduced fertility, and loss of biodiversity.
This is where the concept of Bhumi Suposhan becomes deeply relevant.
“ ???? ??????” means nourishing the soil holistically — not just feeding plants, but sustaining the life within the soil.
As our ancient wisdom reminds us:
“???? ????? ????????? ?????????”
The Earth is my mother, and I am her child.
This verse from the Atharva Veda reflects a profound ecological consciousness. It tells us that soil is not a resource to exploit, but a mother to nurture.
Bhumi Suposhan emphasizes:
Enhancing soil organic matter
Promoting beneficial microbes
Reducing chemical stress
Restoring natural cycles
In essence, it aligns perfectly with modern scientific understanding of the soil microbiome.
Another beautiful thought:
“???? ???? ?? ??? ???? ??, ?? ??? ?????? ???? ????? ?????????? ???”
The Earth gives us everything; keeping it healthy is our responsibility.
Today, as we face challenges like climate change, antibiotic resistance in soil microbes, and declining agricultural productivity, integrating traditional knowledge with modern science is not just desirable — it is essential.
By protecting the soil microbiome, we are not just improving crop yield — we are safeguarding human, animal, and environmental health.
Let us move from soil exploitation to soil regeneration.
Let us shift from input-intensive farming to knowledge-intensive farming.
And most importantly, let us remember:
Healthy soil = Healthy plants = Healthy humans.

Dr. Rabiya Basri, Assistant Professor, SOAS, highlighted the role of bio-inputs in enhancing soil and crop health through eco-friendly approaches.
The programme concluded with a Collective Pledge by participants to promote soil conservation and environmental sustainability, followed by a formal vote of thanks by Prof. Naveen Kumar, School of Agricultural Sciences. About 200 participants including students, faculty members, farmers and staff members. 

The programme was convened by Dr Monika Yadav, programme coordinator, Youth Red Cross Committee and coordinated bt Dr Anjali Tomar with the help of Harshita and Neetu Sharma students from School of Agricultural Sciences.
The initiative reflects the continued commitment of the School of Agricultural Sciences, K.R. Mangalam University, towards advancing sustainable agriculture, environmental awareness, and the holistic vision of “Healthy Soil, Healthy Food, Healthy People.”

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