(a) the share of ecological fertilisers in the market at present;
(b) the steps taken by the Government to promote ecological fertilisation;
(c) whether the Government proposes to phase out Chemical fertilisers gradually;
(d) if so, whether any study has been conducted by the Government on the harmful effects of over chemical fertilization of soil; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
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): In total fertilizer market, while the share of chemical nutrients is 25 million tones,
bio-fertilizer and organic manure/fertilizers contribute 0.15 million and 5.23 million tones
respectively.
(b): Government is promoting use of ecological fertilizers through promoting integrated
nutrient management, advocating soil test-based balanced and judicious use of chemical
fertilizers, bio-fertilizers and organic manures to maintain soil health and its productivity.
Government is also supporting production of bio-fertilizers and organic manures and providing
subsidy for setting up of Vegetable and Fruit Market Waste Compost units and Bio-fertilizer
production respectively. Financial assistance is also being provided for setting up of vermin-
compost production units under National Horticulture Mission (NHM) and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas
Yojna (RKVY).
(c) to (e): Chemical fertilizer remain the main source of plant nutrients. Studies carried out
by ICAR at different locations in the country indicated that non-judicious and imbalanced use of
inorganic fertilizers (NPK) over the years may result in deterioration of soil fertility/nutrient
deficiencies. The Government is, therefore, promoting Integrated Nutrient Management.