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Soil Health Card Scheme 2026 — Free Soil Testing

⚠️ DPDP Rules, 2025 (14 Nov 2025) amended Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act — public-interest override now under Section 8(2). Read the note →

· 2026/04/19 05:02

Direct answer. SHC scheme gives free soil testing every 2 years + crop-specific fertilizer recommendation to every Indian farmer. 22+ crore cards issued since 2015. Reduces fertilizer misuse, improves yield 10–25%. Approach your Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) or village extension officer.

Quick Answer

Eligibility

How to apply

  1. Approach KVK OR village extension officer.
  2. Free sample collection at your farm (officer visits).
  3. Lab analysis: pH, N, P, K, S, Zn, B, Cu, Mn, Fe, organic carbon (12 parameters).
  4. Card printed + delivered in 30–45 days.
  5. Card lists crop-by-crop fertilizer recommendation (kg/acre or kg/ha) for crops you've declared.

What the card shows

  1. Your survey number + farm location
  2. Soil pH, EC, N, P, K levels
  3. Micro + secondary nutrients
  4. Recommended fertilizer dose for: paddy, wheat, sugarcane, maize, pulses, oilseeds (per the crop you grow)
  5. Manure / organic matter recommendation
  6. Crop rotation suggestions

Common issues

Sources

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Last reviewed: 3 May 2026.