The ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural research, Bengaluru, celebrated the World Soil Day - 2023 with the theme “Soil and Water: a Source of Life" on 5th December, 2023. The chief guest, Dr. C.A. Srinivasamurthy, Former Head, Dept. of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, UAS, Bengaluru and Director of Research, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, made comprehensive presentation on Reclamation of heavy metal contaminated soil and water for use in production of horticulture crops. He dwelt at length on the sources of heavy metal contamination in horticultural ecosystems and heavy metal toxicity effects in plants and animals, various approaches for reclamation of heavy metal contaminated soil and water bodies etc. He stressed upon the need for alleviating them with suitable chemical and biological strategies. All the farmers actively participated in the discussion followed by the presentation. Prof. Sanjay Kumar Singh, Director, ICAR-IIHR, in his Presidential address lauded the efforts of the Division of Natural Resources in creating awareness on sustainable soil health management and also arranging the function in a befitting manner. Further, he emphasised on the need for being aware about heavy metal contamination in horticultural produce and the mitigation strategies’. Dr. T.R. Rupa, Head I/c, Division of Natural Resources, gave a brief overview of the genesis and significance of the World Soil Day. The importance of soil, plant and water health cards was elaborated to save the soil and water and also to curtail excess and indiscriminate use of fertilizers. Soil Health Cards were distributed to farmers on the occasion. A Booklet entitled “Soil Health Card: A Tool for Soil and Plant Health Management” was released. On this occasion, videos on ‘Improved composting techniques’, Efficient and balanced use of fertilizers (including Nano-fertilizers)’ and World Soil Day-2023 and its Campaign “Soil and Water: a Source of Life’ were played. Farmers, scientists, technical personnel, students and contractual staff attended the function. The programme was arranged by Dr. T.R. Rupa, Head I/c and Staff of the Division of Natural Resources.