Sustainable agricultural productivity relies on the effective preservation of soil fertility. Among the 16 essential elements required by plants, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are derived from air and water, accounting for approximately 96% of a plant's composition. The remaining elements, collectively accounting for around 4% of a plant's makeup, are known as mineral nutrients and are absorbed by plants from the soil.

These mineral nutrients play both structural and functional roles within the plants, with some elements offering beneficial effects. The interactions between mineral elements and soil organic matter, clay minerals, soil microorganisms, and other associated mineral elements determine their availability and dynamics in the soil.

A thorough understanding of the dynamics of plant nutrients in the soil is crucial for effective nutrient management. Soil organic matter not only provides the necessary nutrients for crops but also enhances the biological and physical properties of the soil. This section offers information on the production and management of organic manures, biofertilizers, integrated nutrient management in cropping systems, and nutrient management in problematic soils.

1. Soil Fertility and Productivity-Concepts and Factors, 2.  Nutrient availability in Soil and Crop Response, 3. Soil Organic Matter- Role, Dynamics and Management, 4.Nitrogen: Role, Dynamics and Management, 5. Phosphorus: Role, Dynamics and Management, 6. Potassium: Role, Dynamics and Management, 7. Calcium, Magnesium and Sulphur-Role, Dynamics and Management, 8. Micronutrients and Beneficial Elements– Role, Dynamics and Management,9. Organic Manures-Production and Enrichment, 10.  Green Manures and Crop Residues- Production and Management,11. Biofertilizers- Role and Management, 12. Integrated Nutrient Management in Cropping Systems,13. Soil and Fertilizer Management and Economics of Fertilizer Use, 14. Nutrient Management in Problem Soils