In the first half of 2025, MASH Makes’ ongoing field trials across India have continued to demonstrate the long-term benefits of biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More on crop performance. With over 35 trials completed to date and nine underway this year, the data reveals consistent gains in yield, soil health, and plant resilience.

Biochar is produced at MASH Makes’ facility in Udupi by heating agricultural waste without oxygen—a process that also yields renewable biofuel and locks carbon in the soil. This high-quality soil amendmentA soil amendment is any material added to the soil to enhance its physical or chemical properties, improving its suitability for plant growth. Biochar is considered a soil amendment as it can improve soil structure, water retention, nutrient availability, and microbial activity.   More enhances water retention, improves fertility, and supports plant growth.

Recent results confirm that these benefits are sustained over time. In Ambajogai, Maharashtra, a demonstration trial on chickpeas showed a 23% increase in grain yield more than two years after the initial biochar application. Farmers also noted improved soil moisture, better plant growth, and enhanced microbial activity.

In Karnataka’s coffee plantations, early results indicate that biochar-treated plants have healthier growth, with denser foliage and more branches—signs of improved nutrient uptake and stronger root systems. Yield measurements are ongoing and expected later this year.

Vineyard trials in Pune, Maharashtra, reveal that biochar helps grapevines retain water better and reduces irrigation needs, a key advantage in drought-prone regions. Farmers also observed stronger canopy development.

Further trials in Beed, Maharashtra, showed notable yield gains across multiple crops:

• Chickpea: 14% increase
• Wheat: 7% increase
• Onion: 23% increase in bulb yield

As India enters its monsoon season, MASH Makes is monitoring ongoing trials and launching new ones for crops including cotton, soybean, green gram, pigeon pea, sugarcane, chili, tomato, ginger, and turmeric.