Question : BALANCED USE OF FERTILIZERS



(a) whether the Government has formulated any policy to ensure balanced use of fertilisers;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, the reasons therefor?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a) & (b): The Government is promoting soil test-based balanced and judicious use of chemical fertilizers, bio-fertilizers and locally available organic manures to maintain soil health and its productivity. A new scheme, namely, `National Project on Management of Soil Health and Fertility` (NPMSF) has been introduced during 2008-09. The components of the new scheme include setting up of 500 new static Soil Testing Laboratories (STLs), setting up of 250 mobil STLs, strengthening of the existing 315 STLs, promotion of organic manures, soil amendments and distribution of micro nutrients during 11th Five Year Plan.

(c): Does not arise.