1. What is this item?

This involves treating land that has high levels of salt (saline) or high pH due to sodium (alkaline/sodic soils). Left untreated, such soils can stunt or completely inhibit plant growth. Reclamation methods today use a mix of chemical amendments, biological agents, and physical practices to restore soil health and productivity faster and more sustainably.

2. How is the Quantity Estimated?

• By Soil Test Reports: Salinity (measured by EC) or alkalinity (by pH and ESP levels) determines the treatment dose.

• Per Hectare Basis: Based on severity—mild, moderate, or severe—amendments are estimated per hectare.

• Layer Depth: Usually top 15–30 cm is treated initially, but deeper interventions may be needed.

3. What are the Cost Components?

• Chemical Amendments:

o Gypsum (for alkaline soils) – ₹3–₹6/kg

o Sulphur or acidifying agents – optional in some cases

• Biological Additives:

o Green manuring (e.g., Dhaincha seeds)

o Microbial consortia or bio-enzymes – ₹500–₹1500/ha

• Organic Matter:

o Farmyard manure or compost – ₹1000–₹2500/ton

• Tillage & Mixing Costs: Tractor/power tiller charges

• Water Management Add-ons: For leaching excess salts

4. What are the Going Rates & How is the Per Unit Rate Calculated?

• Mild Cases (top layer only): ₹8,000–₹12,000 per hectare

• Moderate to Severe Cases: ₹15,000–₹25,000 per hectare (includes repeat applications + drainage support)

✅ Per acre cost range: ₹3500–₹10,000

✅ Per hectare cost range: ₹8,000–₹25,000

💡 Pro Tip: Pairing gypsum application with deep ploughing, green manure crops, and microbial bio-remediators shows faster, longer-lasting results. Some farmers even turn this into a 2-year phased plan to reclaim and then intensify productivity.