Conservation Tillage and Waste Crop Residue Based Zinc Fortification in Rice and Wheat under Reclaimed Sodic Soils: Progress toward Nutrient Circularity and Sustainability

Nearly 50% of the population across the globe is at risk of malnutrition with respect to zinc (Zn) in areas where a cereal based dietary system dominates. The present study estimated daily Zn intake in humans through field experiments in reclaimed sodic soil, utilizing waste crop residue (CR) in conservation tillage where CR played a vital role in enhancing Zn uptake in rice and wheat grains. Zn dynamics, its bioavailability, interaction with soil properties, and plausible contribution in dietary intake were studied extensively to supplement the research. A higher mobility factor (2.70%) and plant available Zn resulted in its higher uptake in rice (58.2 mg kg-1) and wheat (67.2 mg kg-1) under zero tillage in rice followed by zero tillage in wheat where CR was retained on the surface (ZTR-ZTW+CR). Daily Zn intake was found to be maximum (0.651 mg kg-1 day-1) under ZTR-ZTW+CR, demonstrating zinc sufficiency. Thus, this study may help in formulating actionable policies for combating both nutritional security and environmental hazards due to CR burning.