Initiatives to Promote Balanced Fertiliser Use and Organic Farming

Context:

The Government of India reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture through balanced fertiliser usage and schemes like PM-PRANAM, Soil Health Card, and PKVY.

Soil Health and Fertility Scheme (2014):

Objective: Promote Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) by combining chemical fertilizers with organic manures and bio-fertilizers.
Parameters tested: pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Organic Carbon, N, P, K, Sulphur, and Micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, B).
Output:13 crore Soil Health Cards issued.
Extension activities: Over 93,781 trainings, 6.80 lakh demonstrations, and 7,425 farmer melas conducted.

Fertiliser Control Order (FCO), 1985 – Alternative Fertilisers Notified:

Includes:
- Organic Fertilizers
- Bio-fertilizers
- De-oiled cakes
- Organic Carbon Enhancers
- Nano Fertilisers
Aim: Encourage nutrient management and reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers.

Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY):

Coverage: All States/UTs except North Eastern Region.
Financial Assistance: ?31,500/ha over 3 years;
?15,000/ha through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for on-farm/off-farm organic inputs.

Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER):

Target: Exclusive to North Eastern States.
Financial Assistance: ?46,500/ha over 3 years;
- ?32,500/ha for organic inputs;
- ?15,000/ha through DBT.

PM-PRANAM Scheme:

PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness Generation, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth (PM-PRANAM)
Aim: Promote balanced use of fertilizers, alternative fertilisers, and organic farming.
Coverage: All States/UTs.
Incentive: 50% of fertilizer subsidy saved to be provided as an incentive for reduction in chemical fertiliser consumption compared to the average of previous 3 years.