New biochar tech from Bengaluru scientists aims to restore soil carbon and cut fertilizer imports

Scientists at the University of Agricultural Science in Bengaluru have developed a low-cost biochar technology to address declining soil organic carbon in Karnataka. Over half of the state's farmland falls below the critical 0.75% carbon threshold, with Kolar district seeing 94% of its land affected. The method uses a simple drum to burn crop residues into biochar, which contains 50-80% carbon and helps retain fertilizer nutrients. The timing is strategic. India imports 20-25% of its urea and up to 100% of potash, and the 2026 West Asia conflict has exposed supply chain risks. Biochar does not replace fertilizer, but it makes applied nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium more effective. For farmers and policymakers, this is a practical tool to buffer against price shocks while rebuilding soil health. The article does not detail cost per unit or adoption plans, but the technology's simplicity suggests it could scale if extension services support it.