Mechanisms and Applications of Microbial Biotechnology in Soil Health and Agricultural Productivity: A Review
Swati Singh *
Department of Agronomy, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Modipuram, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Ashoka, P
Agricultural Reaserch Station, Hanumanmatti(p), Ranebennur(tq), Haveri, Karanataka, India.
Umang Ahlawat
Kingston Imperial Institute of Technology and Sciences, Dunga, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.
Walunjkar Babasaheb Changdeo
Genetics and Plant Breeding, Shri Vaishnav Institute of Agriculture, Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya, Indore, M.P., India.
Rizwana Rehsawla
Division of Plant Pathology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi, India.
Anu Naruka
Genetics and Plant Breeding, Shri Vaishnav Institute of Agriculture, Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya, Indore, M.P., India.
Deepika Sharma
Kingston Imperial Institute of Technology and Sciences, Dehradun, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Microbial biotechnology in agriculture offers considerable potential for enhancing soil health, increasing crop yields, and promoting sustainability through the application of biofertilizers, biopesticides, and bioremediation techniques. Emerging technologies such as next-generation sequencing, synthetic biology, CRISPR-Cas9, and nanotechnology are driving innovations that improve the efficacy and stability of microbial products. Next-generation sequencing and metagenomics allow for a comprehensive understanding of soil microbial communities, enabling the development of targeted inoculants. Synthetic biology and CRISPR-Cas9 facilitate the engineering of microorganisms with enhanced traits, while nanotechnology and microbial encapsulation improve the delivery and viability of these products. Despite these advancements, the field faces significant challenges including the variability of soil ecosystems, high production costs, limited market availability, and complex regulatory frameworks. Addressing these issues requires targeted research to understand microbial interactions, optimize formulations, and assess environmental impacts. Supportive policies and harmonized regulatory frameworks are essential to streamline approval processes and ensure safety and efficacy. Financial incentives, robust extension services, and public-private partnerships are critical to foster innovation and adoption. Integrating microbial biotechnology with sustainable agricultural practices such as integrated nutrient management (INM) and integrated pest management (IPM) can maximize productivity and environmental benefits. By overcoming these challenges and leveraging advanced technologies, microbial biotechnology can play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable agriculture, ensuring food security, and maintaining environmental health for future generations.
Keywords: Microbial biotechnology, sustainable agriculture, bioremediation, synthetic biology