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*Corresponding author: jnana@cutm.ac.in (ORCID ID: 0000-0002-5565-2765)
To fulfill the demand of increased population it is very essential to enhance crop productivity with precise inputs. Non-judicious application of inorganic fertilizers and other agrochemicals is degrading soil health, creating environmental pollution and also contributing to climate change. Nowadays, people became more aware towards health risks and demand for quality foods with less chemical residues is increasing as there is a progression of demand for organic products. But it is very difficult to produce adequate quantity of organic foods for the raised population in the developing countries as per standard organic practices. That’s why judicious use of inorganic fertilizers, organic manures and biofertilizers is required to supply nutrients to crops. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), such as Rhizobium inoculation in groundnut (a major oilseed crop) can boost crop growth and enhance yield in a sustainable manner. Further, Rhizobium has multifaceted advantages in crop nutrient uptake and soil quality improvement. The article described the role of PGPR as well as Rhizobium in growth and productivity of groundnut towards production sustainability.
PGPR improves plant growth by increasing nutrient uptake, secreting growth promoting hormones, showing antagonistic effect to pest and diseases and reducing adverse effect of heavy metals and other pollutants.
Rhizobium inoculation in groundnut results in higher growth and yield attributes which determines higher pod, kernel and oil yield.
Rhizobium inoculation also helps in raising other beneficial micro-organisms such as Arthrobacter simplex, Bacillus laevolacticus, B. amyloliquefaciens, Pseudomonas denitrificans, and P. rathonis and residual soil fertility.
Groundnut, Growth, Productivity, PGPR, Rhizobium, Sustainability
