World Soil Day + SSC_CHSL?.ToString()?? SSC_CHSL?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
World Soil Day is celebrated annually on December 5 to highlight the importance of healthy soil. The day serves as a reminder of the critical role soils play in our ecosystem and the need to protect and conserve this invaluable resource for future generations. It also aims to raise awareness about soil degradation. This natural resource is made up of a mixture of minerals, organic matter, gases, liquids, and organisms.
World Soil Day is celebrated globally, with various events and activities to raise awareness about soil conservation and its sustainable management.
World Soil Day 2024 Theme:
Every year, World Soil Day is given a special theme that focuses on a particular aspect of soil health and protection. These are carefully chosen to address the current issues and promote sustainable practices. This year, the theme of World Soil Day is “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage." It emphasises the need for accurate soil data and information to support sustainable soil management.
World Soil Day 2024: History
The day was first recommended by the International Union of Soil Sciences in 2002, which was supported by the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United States (FAO). The day was then established under the leadership of the Kingdom of Thailand within the framework of the Global Soil Partnership.
Later in 2013, the FAO Conference endorsed the day and urged that World Soil Day be formally adopted at the 68th United Nations General Assembly. The UNGA designated December 5, 2014, as the first World Soil Day.
World Soil Day 2024: Key Facts
It is estimated that 95% of our food directly or indirectly comes from soil. It provides essential nutrients, water, oxygen and root support for plants to grow and flourish.
According to Food and Agriculture organisation, 33 percent of the Earth’s soil is already degraded because of factors such as deforestation and mining. It is also estimated that 90 percent could become degraded by 2050.
It can take up to 1,000 years to produce just 2-3 cm of soil. It is formed through the slow physical, chemical, and biological weathering of bedrock.
Soil is vital for our existence because it’s a fundamental resource for life on Earth.
It is made up of layers that include the organic layer, topsoil, subsoil, and bedrock.
Soil comes in many different colours, including red, brown, yellow, black, and gray.
Soil is one of our most important weapons in the fight against climate change, as it contains more carbon than the atmosphere and all of the world’s plants and forests combined.
INDIA’S SOIL HEALTH CHALLENGES:
In India, the world's second-most populous country, soil health is a pressing issue. Excessive use of chemical fertilisers, over-irrigation, and deforestation have led to declining fertility in many agricultural zones.
Government initiatives like the Soil Health Card Scheme and efforts to promote organic farming are steps in the right direction, but much more remains to be done.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Improving soil health isn’t just the responsibility of farmers or policymakers. As global citizens, small actions can make a big impact:
Compost organic waste: Turn kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost instead of discarding them.
Plant trees and native vegetation: These help prevent soil erosion and maintain ecological balance.
Educate others: Awareness is key. Share information on soil conservation practices.
Support sustainable farming practices: Choose organic and locally grown produce.

Useful information for all competitive exams:
International Union of Soil Sciences:
Formation: 1924
Headquarters: Rome, Italy
President: Edoardo Costantini (Italy)
Parent organization: International Science Council
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO):
Formation: 16 October 1945
Founded at: Quebec City, Canada
Type: United Nations specialized agency
Headquarters: Rome, Italy
Director-General (9th): Qu Dongyu (China)
Parent organization: United Nations Economic and Social Council

In Short:
World Soil Day is observed on December 5 to highlight soil's importance
Over 33% of global soils are degraded due to human activities
The theme Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage."