Soil Health Card Scheme

Soil Health Card Scheme: Soil Health Card Scheme (SHC Scheme) is a flagship program launched by the Government of India in February 2015 under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. Its main aim is to promote soil test‑based nutrient management, helping farmers reduce input costs while improving crop productivity through balanced use of fertilizers.

Why Soil Health Card Matters for Farmers

Every farmer in India receives a printed Soil Health Card, which provides detailed information about soil nutrient levels and physical parameters. Based on this analysis, farmers get specific fertilizer and soil amendment recommendations.

For small and marginal farmers, the benefits of a Soil Health Card are significant:

• Saves money by reducing unnecessary fertilizer use

• Improves yield through balanced nutrient management

• Protects soil health for long‑term agricultural sustainability

The card covers 12 major parameters such as Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Sulphur (S), Zinc (Zn), Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Boron (B), Soil pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), and Organic Carbon (OC).

Objectives of Soil Health Card Scheme

1. 12 Soil Parameters & Customised Fertiliser Advice

Each card provides test results for 12 vital soil parameters along with scientific fertilizer recommendations based on the crops grown.

2. Soil Health Card Frequency – Issued Every Three Years

A new Soil Health Card Scheme is issued every 3 years, enabling farmers to track changes in soil quality and improve nutrient management practices over time.

3. Nationwide Coverage & Digital Portal

The Soil Health Card Portal ensures uniform design and availability in multiple regional languages. Farmers can also track their soil data and download their SHC online.

4. Soil Sample Collection Process

• Samples are collected in a grid of 2.5 ha (irrigated land) and 10 ha (rainfed land) using GPS.

• Sampling is done twice a year (post‑Rabi and post‑Kharif or during fallow period).

• Soil is taken from 15‑20 cm depth at five spots (four corners and the center).

• Samples are tested in accredited labs (run by agriculture departments, ICAR, KVKs, SAUs, and other agencies).

• ₹190 is allocated per sample to cover collection, testing, and card distribution.

5. Infrastructure & Achievements (as of 2025)

• 24.74 crore Soil Health Cards distributed

• 8,272 Soil Testing Laboratories established

• ₹1,706 crore released to states and UTs

• Nearly 1,987 soil fertility maps created for villages in 21 states

Soil Health Card Scheme Benefits

The Soil Health Scheme benefits farmers in multiple ways:

• Promotes balanced fertilizer use and reduces overuse

• Lowers cultivation cost and boosts productivity

• Improves soil fertility for future crops

• Helps the government monitor soil health trends at state and district levels

Constraints & Challenges

Despite its success, there are some Soil Health Card Scheme issues:

• Improper soil sample collection may lead to inaccurate test results

• Some SHCs issue generic recommendations instead of field‑specific advice

• Farmers may struggle to interpret the card without proper training

• Lack of data on physical and biological indicators like soil texture, microbial activity, or water retention

How Farmers Can Get a Soil Health Card Scheme

Wondering how to get a Soil Health Card online or offline? Here’s the process:

1. Visit your nearest Agriculture Office, KVK, or Soil Testing Lab.

2. Submit details such as land records, Aadhaar number, and contact information.

3. Trained staff or officials collect soil samples for testing.

4. Farmers can track the status and download SHC online through the Soil Health Card Portal.

5. Follow fertilizer and soil amendment recommendations for improved yield and sustainable farming.

Soil Health Card Scheme Highlights

Candidates can also check