EcoLime+: Odisha’s Innovation to Cut Fertilizer Costs and Boost Yields

Bhubaneswar: A breakthrough soil amendment named EcoLime+, developed by ICAR-Central Rice Research Institute, is helping farmers in Odisha reduce fertiliser costs by up to 15% while improving crop productivity in acid soils.

Made from industrial by-products like slag and fly ash enriched with compost, EcoLime+ supplies essential nutrients including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, silicon, potassium, and zinc.

Scientific analysis confirmed that harmful elements remain within permissible limits under Fertiliser Control Order guidelines.

Field trials across more than 1,000 hectares in six districts showed promising results: rice yields increased by 8–16%, green gram yields by 12–19%, soil pH improved by 2–10%, and phosphorus availability rose by 15%.

Over 1,600 soil health cards were distributed, and 1,500 farmers were trained in their use.

EcoLime+ has also proven effective in plantation crops such as cashew, lemon, coconut, and mango.

Farmers reported reduced dependence on chemical fertilisers like DAP, lowering cultivation costs while enhancing soil health.

The Odisha government has appreciated the initiative, and a patent application has been filed.

Researchers believe the technology can be scaled to other acid soil regions in Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Northeast India, promoting a circular economy by converting industrial waste into agricultural wealth.

Dr Pratap Bhattacharyya emphasised that large-scale adoption could transform waste-to-wealth and boost sustainability, while Dr Rubina Khanam highlighted its role in providing secondary nutrients crucial for rice cultivation.