The book is in accordance with the recommendations of the ICAR Sixth Deans' Committee and NEP-2020, Fundamentals of Soil Science presents a comprehensive, outcome-based introduction to the principles and applications of soil science for undergraduate students of Agriculture and allied disciplines. The book develops a strong conceptual foundation by systematically covering soil genesis, profile development, soil components, physical, chemical, and biological properties, and their significance in sustainable crop production and natural resource management.

The text explains essential concepts of soil texture, structure, bulk density, porosity, soil water and air relations, temperature, colloids, organic matter, and nutrient interactions in a clear, student-friendly manner. Advanced topics, including soil classification, land capability, rocks and minerals, pedogenesis, remote sensing, soil survey techniques, and soil degradation, are integrated to connect scientific principles with field applications and contemporary challenges in agriculture and environmental management.

Special emphasis has been placed on experiential learning, practical skills, and competency development through illustrations, flowcharts, diagrams, examples, and problem-solving exercises. The book also incorporates ICAR-aligned unit-wise MCQs, assertion–reason questions, match-the-following exercises, and model tests to strengthen conceptual understanding and facilitate systematic examination preparation.

Salient Features

• Fully aligned with the ICAR Sixth Deans' Committee syllabus and course outcomes.
• Outcome-based and competency-driven approach in accordance with NEP-2020.
• Comprehensive coverage of soil genesis, properties, classification, survey, and management.
• Student-friendly presentation through illustrations, flowcharts, tables, and practical examples.
• Integration of remote sensing, soil degradation, and sustainable land-use concepts.
• Unit-wise ICAR-compliant MCQs, review questions, and model tests for self-assessment.
• Emphasis on conceptual clarity, field diagnosis, and practical problem-solving skills.
• Useful for classroom teaching, practical training, competitive examinations, and professional reference.

This textbook will serve as an essential resource for undergraduate and postgraduate students of Agriculture, Horticulture, Environmental Sciences, and Natural Resource Management, and as a valuable reference for teachers, researchers, extension professionals, and practitioners engaged in soil and land resource management.

Dr. Hitendra Kumar Rai: Principal Scientist/Professor, Department of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur–482004 (M.P.), India

I, Dr. Hitendra Kumar Rai, Principal Scientist/Professor, Department of Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.), present this prologue as a synthesis of my academic journey and professional insights spanning over two and a half decades in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry.

Beginning with a B.Sc. (Ag.) from Purvanchal University, Jaunpur (1993), and followed by M.Sc. (Ag.) and Ph.D. in Soil Science from GBPUAT, Pantnagar, my work has consistently explored the central role of soils in sustaining agricultural productivity and environmental health. At JNKVV, I have taught across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes, and guided 21 Master’s and 6 Doctoral scholars.

My research focuses on soil fertility, micronutrient dynamics, and sustainable land use, culminating in 53 peer-reviewed publications, along with book chapters, conference proceedings, and extension materials. I have led seven externally funded research projects and engaged actively with the academic community through 19 workshops, conferences, and seminars, including scientific visits to Brazil and Vietnam. Recognition for this work includes the Bioved Young Scientist Associate Award (2013), Mahima Fellow of Society Award (2016), and the ICAR-IISS Special Award for Innovative Research on Micronutrients (2017), among others.

This prologue is informed by collaborations with IARI, CIMMYT-India, and SKUAST-K, and is intended as a consolidated resource for students, researchers, and professionals in soil science and allied disciplines. I hope the perspectives shared here support sustainable agricultural practices and encourage future research in this vital field.

1 Composition of Earth’s Crust, Soil as A Natural Body – Major Components

2 Eluviation, Illuviation Formation of Various Soils

3 Physical Parameters; Texture – Definition, Methods of Textural Analysis, Stock’s Law, Assumption, Limitations, Textural Classes, Use of Textural Triangle

4 Absolute Specific Gravity/ Particle Density, Definition, Apparent Specific Gravity/Bulk Density – Factors Influencing, Field Bulk Density. Relation Between BD (Bulk Density), AD – Practical Problems

5 Pore Space – Definition, Factors Affecting Capillary and Non-Capillary Porosity, Soil Colour – Definition, Its Significance, Colour Variable, Value Hue and Chroma. Munsell Colour Chart

6 Factors Influencing, Parent Material, Soil Moisture, Organic Matter

7 Soil Structure, Definition, Classification, Clay Prism Like Structure, Factors Influencing Genesis of Soil Structure, Soil Consistency, Plasticity, Atterberg’s Constants

8 Soil Air, Air Capacity, Composition, Factors Influencing, Amount of Air Space, Soil Air Renewal

9 Soil Temperature, Sources and Distribution of Heat, Factors Influencing, Measurement

10 Chemical Properties, Soil Colloids, Organic, Humus, Inorganic, Secondary Silicate, Clay, Hydrous Oxides. Ion Exchange, Cation-Anion Importance

11 Soil Water, Forms, Hygroscopic, Capillary and Gravitational, Soil Moisture Constants, Hygroscopic Coefficient, Wilting Point, Field Capacity, Moisture Equivalent, Maximum Water Holding Capacity

12 Energy Concepts, PF Scale, Measurement, Gravimetric – Electric and Tensiometer Methods – Pressure Plate and Pressure Membrane Apparatus–Neutronprobe – Soil Water Movement–Classification

13 Aerial Photography– Satellite of Soil Features – Their Interpretation

14 Soil Orders

15 Land Capability Classification

16 Soil of Different Eco-Systems and Their Properties

17 Rock and Minerals Classification, Pedogenic Process

18 Objectives of Soil Science Research Institute in India (NBSS and LUP, ISSS, LTFE and NSSTL)

19 Management of Soil Crusting, Soil Compaction and Soil Compression

20 Soil Biology Benefits and Harmful Effects

21 Methods and Objective of Soil Survey

22 Remote Sensing Application in Soil and Plant Studies

23 Soil Degradation