Impact of Climate Resilient Agriculture on Soil Physical Properties of Samastipur District Soil of Bihar, India

Abstract

Climate resilient agricultural (CRA) practices in overcoming barriers faced in agri-food system by farmers across the different villages of the Samastipur district of Bihar? In view of the increasing effects of climate change on global agri-food systems, this study investigates the obstacles that prevent farmers in Bihar from using CRATs. Two hundred fifty surface soil samples (0-15 cm) were collected from the villages of Chakpahad, HarpurBhindi, ChakoBhindi, Rampur Maheshpur, Rampur Morba, and KVK Virauli, representing ten selected agricultural systems. Ten treatments incorporating combinations of zero tillage, residue retention, and permanent bed systems were evaluated. Results showed that while bulk density remained largely unchanged, CRA treatments significantly improved available water content, aggregate size distribution, and mean weight diameter (MWD). Treatments T5 and T3 consistently enhanced soil structure and moisture retention across locations, with T5 exhibiting superior aggregate stability and reduced fine particle fractions. These findings highlight CRA’s potential to strengthen soil health and resilience under climate stress conditions in the Indo-Gangetic plains.