Reactive Nitrogen Deposition in India: Impacts on Terrestrial Ecosystems and Current Research Status

Reactive nitrogen (N) deposition presents significant environmental challenges in India, where approximately 24% of the land is forested and agriculture plays a vital role in the economy. As a major contributor from South Asia—a global reactive nitrogen emissions hotspot—India's policy actions, or inactions, have far-reaching implications. Despite ongoing clean air initiatives, the scientific community has largely neglected the effects of reactive nitrogen deposition on terrestrial ecosystems. This study aims to compile and assess the current research status on reactive nitrogen deposition in India, underscoring its importance given the country's unique geography and agricultural reliance.

The study will provide indirect estimations of reactive nitrogen deposition based on nitrogen concentration measurements from various regions across the country. While wet deposition studies offer a broader understanding, research on dry deposition remains limited. Recent efforts, such as the South Asia Nitrogen Hub project led by CEH UK, have studied the forest ecosystem to explore the impact of reactive nitrogen on lichens. However, comprehensive data on reactive nitrogen deposition across diverse ecosystems is still lacking.

This research seeks to identify existing gaps and stimulate discussion on future research directions essential for the effective management of reactive nitrogen in India's varied ecosystems. By addressing these issues, we aim to inform policy and practice to mitigate the adverse effects of reactive nitrogen deposition while promoting sustainable development in the region.