UPSC CSE Prelims 2020
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(D) Statements 1, 2, and 3 are all correct regarding the use of biochar in farming.
Biochar is a stable, carbon-rich material produced through the pyrolysis of organic biomass under low oxygen conditions. It is increasingly recognized for its multiple benefits in agricultural systems.
Statement 1: Biochar's lightweight, porous structure, and capacity to retain water and nutrients make it a suitable component for growing media in soilless cultivation methods, including vertical farming. Its inclusion can improve the physical and chemical properties of these artificial substrates.
Statement 2: The high surface area and porous nature of biochar create a favorable microenvironment for microbial colonization. This promotes the growth and activity of beneficial microorganisms, including nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which are crucial for enhancing soil fertility and nutrient availability to plants.
Statement 3: Biochar significantly improves the water-holding capacity of the growing medium. Its porous structure acts like a sponge, absorbing and retaining moisture, which then becomes slowly available to plant roots. This property helps in reducing irrigation frequency and improving plant resilience, particularly in water-stressed environments.
Options (1), (2), and (3) are incorrect because they omit one or more of the valid applications and benefits of biochar in farming as described in statements 1, 2, and 3. All three statements accurately describe established uses and advantages of biochar.