The 89th Annual Convention of the Indian Society of Soil Science (ISSS) was inaugurated on 18.11.2025 at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore marking a significant gathering of eminent soil scientists, researchers, academicians, and policy makers across the country.
The event was jointly organized by the Coimbatore Chapter of Indian Society of Soil Science, Department of soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore and the Indian Society of Soil Science, NewDelhi.
Dr.P.Balasubramaniam, Director (DNRM), TNAU, Coimbatore welcomed the dignitaries and delegates and pointed out that managing soil health is our path forward for sustainable soil health management practices to restore fertility, prevent erosion, and boost resilience to climate shocks. Dr.P.P.Mahendran, Dean, AC&RI, Madurai narrated an overview of the activities of Indian Society of Soil Science and pointed out Healthy soils are the foundation of the food system. Dr.R.Thamizh Vendan, Acting Vice Chancellor, TNAU, Coimbatore delivered special address and acknowledged the legacy and contributions of Indian Society of Soil Science since its inception in advancing Soil Science in India. He also emphasized on Governments, Organizations and individuals have responsibilities to care our soils for future generations followed by Citation of Awards by Dr. Ranjan Bhattacharyya, Secretary, ISSS, New Delhi.
Dr. Suresh Kumar Chaudhari, Director General (FAI), New Delhi in his special address, focused on the theme of the convention, underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary research and farmer-oriented soil management strategies. Five numbers of publications including Abstracts of 89th Annual Convention, Souvenier and Books were also released during the inaugural progrramme. Retired Soil Scientists of TNAU and Sponsors for this event were also honoured in the inaugural function.
The convention was virtually inaugurated by Thiru.V.Dakshinamoorthy, I.A.S. Agricultural Production Commissioner & Secretary to Government, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai. He highlighted the landmark initiative, Tamil Mann Valam (Soil Health) launched by the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, Govt. of Tamil Nadu and Chief Minister’s “Mannuyir Kaathu Mannuyir Kaappom Scheme”. He also emphasized the importance of Precision Agriculture and Soil Health Cards for sustaining soil health and agricultural productivity.
The presidential address was delivered by Dr. Dr.Himanshu Pathak, President ISSS, New Delhi & Director General (ICRISAT), Hyderabad and President, ISSS, who outlined the Society’s contributions over the decades in promoting Soil Science education, research, and extension. He also reaffirmed the Society’s commitment to addressing contemporary challenges such as declining soil fertility, micronutrient deficiencies, and climate resilience. He also highlighted on TNAU achievements in the field of Soil Science and the need for sustainable soil management practices and the adoption of advanced technologies for enhancing soil health and productivity.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Mrs.D.Selvi, President, ISSS-Coimbatore Chapter cum Organizing Secretary & Professor & Head, Dept. of SS&AC, TNAU, Coimbatore. The three-day convention will feature technical sessions, panel discussions, poster presentations, and farmer–scientist interactions covering diverse themes related to soil fertility, nutrient management, soil carbon sequestration, and digital tools for precision agriculture. The 89th Annual Convention of ISSS serves as an important platform for exchanging knowledge and fostering collaborations among soil scientists and stakeholders to ensure sustainable management of precious soil resources. Altogether about 500 participants comprising scientists and students will be benefitted by this programme.