The Department of Fertilisers has finalized agreements with resource-rich nations to ensure a stable supply for domestic fertiliser production, reducing geopolitical risks. To enhance domestic substitution, the government is promoting capacity expansion under the Nutrient-Based Subsidy scheme, as stated by Union Minister JP Nadda in Lok Sabha. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring fertiliser availability while addressing import dependence and soil nutrient imbalances.
Estimated import shares for fertiliser raw materials in CY2024-25 are significant, with rock phosphate at 86%, sulphur at 52%, natural gas for urea at 78%, ammonia for complex fertilisers at 75%, phosphoric acid at 52%, and muriate of potash at 100%. India’s reliance on imports for key fertiliser raw materials persists due to limited domestic reserves. Fertiliser companies are in the process of establishing new DAP/NPK plants with a combined annual capacity of 59.65 LMT, along with phosphoric and sulphuric acid plants with a capacity of 44.21 LMT.
Additionally, the National Green Hydrogen Mission has allocated 7.24 LMT of Green Ammonia procurement for the fertiliser sector. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) advocates for soil test-based balanced fertilization and emphasizes the balanced application of NPK fertilisers over excessive nitrogen use. Practices like split application of nitrogen, proper fertilizer placement, and the use of slow-release fertilisers, neem-coated urea, and nitrification inhibitors are encouraged to minimize nutrient losses, as per the statement.
ICAR is actively involved in capacity building through farmer training, demonstrations, and awareness programs to reduce excessive urea consumption, ensure balanced nutrient application, and enhance soil health.
