Report on

Educational Visit to ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Lucknow

Date of Visit: 30^th September 2025

Organised by: Maharishi School of Agriculture in association with IQAC

Objective: An educational visit to ICAR–Central Soil Salinity Research Institute (CSSRI), Lucknow, was organized by the Maharishi School of Agriculture (MUIT Lucknow Campus) in association with IQAC on 30th September 2025. The visit provided students with valuable exposure to ongoing research and innovative technologies in the areas of soil salinity management, saline water utilization, and reclamation of salt-affected lands.

Participating Students:  Students of B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture and M.Sc. Horticulture 1^st Semester.

Visit Details: The visit began with an introductory session on soil salinity issues and advanced research techniques at ICAR-CSSRI, Lucknow. Students explored the Soil Chemistry Laboratory, Soil Texture Lab, and various soil measurement apparatus, (Flame Photometer, Incubator with temperature control), Spectrophotometer) to understand soil properties in detail. They also visited the Microbiology Laboratory to learn about soil microbial activity and the development of new beneficial bacteria aimed at improving crop growth and soil health.

Throughout the visit, Dr. Sanjay Arora, Principal Scientist, and Research Scholar Ekta Chaudhary engaged with students, explaining innovative methods and recent research on advanced field techniques for managing salt-affected soils.

Students interacted with scientists, explored research facilities, and observed demonstrations on sustainable soil and water management practices. The experience helped deepen their understanding of scientific approaches in addressing challenges related to soil health and agricultural productivity.

 

The visit was coordinated by Mrs. Pragya Tiwari, Dy. Dean (MSOA) and Dr. Ankit Singh Yadav, Assistant Professor (MSOA) .

Students Feedback: The students expressed enthusiasm and satisfaction with the visit. It provided valuable insights into the challenges of soil salinity and its impact on agriculture. Interactions with scientists deepened their understanding of practical applications beyond classroom theory. Observing the laboratories and field research enhanced their appreciation of current advancements in soil science. Overall, the experience strengthened their interest and motivation to further explore the field of agriculture.

Acknowledgement: We immensely thank Dr. Sanjay Arora, Principal Scientist, Research Scholar Ekta Chaudhary, ICAR-CSSRI management and staff for their kind support during the visit.

We extend our gratitude to Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bhanu Pratap Singh, Registrar, Dr. Girish Chhimwal, Dean Academics, Dr. Neeraj Jain, Dean, Dr. Dheeraj Yadav and Dy. Dean, Mrs. Pragya Tiwari, for encouraging support for the visit. Thanks also to Sr. AO, Dr. Rajesh Singh for his coordination for the visit.