Summary
Biochar is a stable carbon-rich by-product through pyrolysis of biomass under limited oxygen conditions. It has emerged as a sustainable strategy for enhancing soil health and agricultural productivity. This review synthesized recent research both on the positive and negative impacts of biochar application across different soil types and cropping systems, with particular focus on its relevance to India’s agrarian economy. Biochar has been shown to improve soil physical properties such as bulk density, porosity, water retention and aggregate stability. Chemically, it enhances nutrient retention by increasing cation exchange capacity, soil pH and organic carbon content. Biologically, biochar supported microbial abundance, enzyme activities and biomass carbon, especially in nutrient-deficient
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