**5. Conclusions and future perspectives**

Soybean is an important protein and oil seed crop and BNF is an important source of nitro‐ gen for the crop. Considerable work has been conducted regarding soybean proteomics, fa‐ cilitated by recent advancements in technology, but a more systematic approach to this method is required in order to understand the intricacies of plant growth and development in the face of interactions with various symbionts. There is wide variation in the ability of *B. japonicum* strains to fix atmospheric nitrogen and screening of the various strains known to us, in the light of specific agro-climatic conditions, will help improve effective BNF at a very low cost. In this regard, the proteomic profile can be of immense help in highlighting the protein-protein interactions that are involved during the process of nodule initiation, forma‐ tion and sustenance. This in-depth knowledge of the role of proteins in nodulation and plant growth promotion processes will assist in further improvement of soybean cultivars and their associated *B. japonicum* strains, for a better and more sustainable agriculture.
