Authors : Roopali Bhargava
Page Nos : 184-190
Description :
The confluence of a burgeoning global population, rapid urbanization, climate change, and the degradation of arable land presents an unprecedented challenge to global food security. Traditional agricultural practices, while foundational to human civilization, are increasingly strained, characterized by high water consumption, soil depletion, and heavy reliance on chemical inputs. In this context, soilless farming techniques, particularly hydroponics, are emerging as a potent and revolutionary alternative.
This research article examines the science behind hydroponic systems like the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) and Deep Water Culture (DWC). It highlights global adoption in pioneering nations such as the Netherlands and Israel before focusing on the Indian subcontinent. For India, a region grappling with immense population pressure and water scarcity, hydroponics offers a path to urban food security and new entrepreneurial opportunities with pesticide-free produce.
However, widespread adoption is hindered by challenges like high initial investment, energy dependency, and a technical knowledge gap. Despite these hurdles, this analysis concludes that hydroponics, especially when integrated with technologies like AI and IoT, is a critical component in developing a resilient and sustainable agricultural future for both India and the world.
