After managing to reduce urea subsidy despite high global prices during FY23-24 and stepping up allocation for organic fertilizers by more than 16 times, the focus on nano di-ammonia phosphate (nano-DAP) may eventually help the government to bring down subsidy on phosphatic fertilizers substantially. This is even as the debate over the efficiency of liquid nano fertilizers still continues.. In her Budget speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said: “After the successful adoption of nano-urea, application of nano-DAP on various crops will be expanded in all agro-climatic zones.” She did not explain further. The minister has allocated ₹100 crore for promotion of organic fertilizers during FY25 against ₹6 crore in FY24 (RE). A new scheme for promotion of organic fertilizers providing Market Development Assistance (MDA) and promotion of Research and Development as GOBARdhan initiatives, was introduced in 2023. The PM-PRANAM scheme was also launched last year to grant financial incentive under a formula to states if they reduce usage of chemical fertilizers. New beginning Launching the commercial roll out of nano-DAP of fertiliser co-operative IFFCO in April last year, Union Co-operation Minister Amit Shah had said the introduction of nano variant of fertiliser was a new beginning towards making India self reliant on fertiliser as it would increase farm productivity without impacting the soil health. Apart from IFFCO, Coromandel International and Zuari have got government’s approval to manufacture nano-DAP.
Read MoreGujarat University (GU) is taking steps to promote natural farming in the state. In collaboration with the Indian Institute of Sustainability (IIS), GU will adopt 13 villages, training women farmers in natural farming techniques. The initiative includes a three-year study on the impact of natural farming on soil and residents' health. The project begins with training 750 women farmers and 75 self-help group (SHG) women in Vasna Keliya of Dholka. Utilizing technology, the training incorporates drone usage for tasks like sprinkling natural fertilizers. The 'Drone Sakhi' program aims to integrate natural farming with modern methods. IIS Director Sudhanshu Jangir shared that a team of researchers will monitor the farming process, assess soil quality improvement, and study the health impact on consumers over three years. The initial one-acre pilot project in Vasna Keliya will pave the way for further research across 29 acres in Dholka village. GU Vice Chancellor Neerja Gupta highlighted the ongoing commitment, with IIS students and alumni actively monitoring the progress in the adopted villages for effective implementation of natural farming practices.
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