Sustainability of Organic Farming from a Global Perspective: A Critical Analysis of Soil Types and Fertility Status of Organically Managed vs. Chemicalized Vegetable Fields of South India

Abstract Aims: Globally, organic farming is emerging as a promising alternative to chemicalized agriculture in overcoming agricultural challenges. However, experts often question its efficiency in maintaining soil fertility to sustain the global demand for agricultural production. South India, characterized by its rich agricultural heritage and diverse agroecosystems, stands as a unique test ground for analyzing the problems and prospects of sustainable organic farming. Therefore, the primary goal of the current studywas to assess the soil fertility status of organic vegetable fields concerning various agroclimatic zones, soil types, seasons, organic practices, and vegetable crops in South India as a model for global comparisons. Method: The approach was an assessment of soil quality parameters such as soil pH, total organic carbon (TOC), soil available nitrogen (SAN), soil available phosphorus (SAP), and soil available potassium (SAK) as the basis of soil fertility status and to compare the soil quality at different levels. Results: The organic fields didn't exhibit distinctiveness in soil parameters from that of chemicalized fields except for soil-specific variations in some fields. Soil fertility status was at par with chemicalized fields in the region. The region does not consistently monitor nutrient levels concerning soil type, climate, or seasons. Different kinds of organic practiceshad no significant influence on soil quality. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for global standardization of procedures in organizing organic agriculture as a sustainable model of agricultural production.