Answer:

Introduction:

In recent years, India has faced severe environmental challenges due to the disruption of biogeochemical cycles. For instance, in 2022, the excessive use of synthetic fertilisers led to severe eutrophication in several major rivers, including the Ganga and Yamuna, causing extensive fish kills and water quality degradation. 

Body:

Impact of Disrupted Biogeochemical Cycles on Environmental Sustainability:

• Soil Degradation:
  • Nutrient Imbalance: Excessive use of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers disrupts soil nutrient balance, leading to soil acidification and reduced agricultural productivity.                                              For example: Studies show that the soil pH in Punjab has dropped significantly, affecting crop yields and soil health.
• Impact on Biodiversity:
  • Loss of Species: Disrupted nutrient cycles can lead to habitat degradation and loss of biodiversity. Excessive nutrient loading can alter species composition and ecosystem functions.                           For example: In Kerala, excessive nutrient runoff has led to the decline of native fish species and the proliferation of invasive species, disrupting local aquatic ecosystems.
• Water Pollution:
  • Eutrophication: Runoff from agricultural fields carries excess nutrients into water bodies, causing algal blooms that deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic life.                                                             For example: The Yamuna River experiences annual algal blooms, severely impacting local biodiversity and water quality.
• Air Quality Degradation:
  • Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Altered carbon and nitrogen cycles increase emissions of greenhouse gases like nitrous oxide and methane, contributing to climate change and air pollution.               For example: India’s agricultural sector contributes to 18% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, largely due to fertiliser use and livestock farming.

Impact on Public Health: 

• Waterborne Diseases:
  • Contaminated Water Sources: Eutrophication and pollution of water bodies lead to the proliferation of harmful pathogens, increasing the incidence of waterborne diseases.                                                     For example: High nitrate levels in drinking water are linked to methemoglobinemia, particularly affecting infants in rural areas.
• Respiratory and Cardiovascular Issues:
  • Air Pollution: Increased emissions from disrupted cycles contribute to poor air quality, exacerbating respiratory and cardiovascular conditions among the population.                                                     For example: Delhi’s air quality deteriorates annually during the winter, partly due to agricultural stubble burning, leading to a spike in respiratory illnesses.
• Food Safety Concerns:
  • Toxic Contaminants: Nutrient imbalances and excessive pesticide use result in the accumulation of toxic substances in food, posing health risks.                                                                                     For example: Assam government launched strict enforcement against the use of pesticide Monocrotophos in tea plantation and vegetables.

Comprehensive Strategies for Restoring Nutrient Cycles and Reducing Pollution:

• Sustainable Agricultural Practices:
  • Organic Fertilizers and Crop Rotation: Promoting the use of organic fertilisers and implementing crop rotation can restore soil health and balance nutrient cycles.
    For example: Use of Leaf mould, Madhyam compost in Sikkim as part of organic farming.
• Pollution Control Measures:
  • Regulations and Infrastructure: Enforcing stringent pollution control regulations and improving wastewater treatment infrastructure to prevent nutrient runoff into water bodies.
    For example: The National Mission for Clean Ganga focuses on setting up sewage treatment plants to reduce nutrient load in the river.
• Reforestation and Afforestation:
  • Carbon Sequestration: Large-scale tree planting and forest conservation efforts can enhance carbon sequestration and restore natural nutrient cycles.
    For example: The Green India Mission aims to increase forest and tree cover, thereby improving carbon sequestration and soil health.
• Public Awareness and Education:
  • Community Initiatives: Raising public awareness about the importance of biogeochemical cycles and promoting community-based environmental conservation projects.
    For example: Educational programs in Kerala have successfully engaged local communities in sustainable farming practices, reducing environmental degradation.

Conclusion:

Disrupted biogeochemical cycles pose significant threats to environmental sustainability and public health in India. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including sustainable agricultural practices, stringent pollution control measures, reforestation, and public awareness initiatives. By implementing these strategies, India can restore its nutrient cycles, reduce pollution, and ensure a healthier environment for future generations.

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