ELUCIDATING PLANT-SOIL-MICROBIOL INTERACTION IN BIOFERTILIZER-BASED NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR IMPROVING SOIL FERTILITY AND CROP NUTRIENT USE EFFICIENCY

Abstract

Sustainable agricultural intensification requires innovative nutrient management strategies that enhance productivity while preserving environmental integrity. This study evaluated the performance of biofertilizer-based nutrient management systems through integrated assessment of soil biochemical properties, microbial community dynamics, nutrient-use efficiency, plant physiological responses, yield performance, and sustainability indicators. The results revealed that biofertilizer application significantly increased soil enzymatic activities, microbial biomass carbon, and functional microbial diversity, leading to accelerated nutrient cycling and improved soil fertility. Nutrient-use efficiency indices for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium were markedly higher under biofertilizer treatments, indicating superior nutrient recovery and internal utilization compared with synthetic fertilization. Enhanced chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, and stress tolerance mechanisms resulted in increased biomass production, yield stability, and resilience under abiotic stress conditions. Additionally, biofertilizer-mediated improvements in soil organic carbon, aggregate stability, and water-holding capacity contributed to long-term soil health and reduced environmental footprint. Integrated sustainability indices confirmed improved energy efficiency, reduced emission intensity, and greater system resilience under biofertilizer-based management. Overall, the findings demonstrate that biofertilizers effectively enhance soil–plant–microbe interactions and represent a viable, eco-friendly alternative for sustainable agricultural production.