Question : ADVERSE IMPACT OF CHEMICAL FERTILIZER

(a) whether the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has conducted any study in regard to the adverse impact of chemical fertilizers on agricultural production;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the impact of the chemical fertilizers noticed on ground water;

(c) whether the ICAR has suggested any remedial measures;

(d) if so, the details thereof;

(e) whether the Government propose to set up an advisory body for the conservation of soil, ground water and environment; and

(f) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI AJIT SINGH)


(a) to (f): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF PARTS (a) TO (f) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 488 TO BE ANSWERED ON 29th APRIL, 2002 REGARDING ADVERSE IMPACT OF CHEMICAL FERTILIZER.

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) The Indian Council of Agricultural Research has conducted studies on these aspects under two All India Coordinated Research Projects namely; i) Long Term Fertilizers Experiments & ii) Ground Water Utilization. The former has established that prolonged use of inadequate and imbalanced fertilizers may cause nutrient deficiencies, deteriorating soil health and crop productivity. The latter project has indicated the increasing concentrations of nitrates in ground waters in some high fertilizer consumption areas of the country.

(c) Yes Sir,

(d) ICAR is recommending soil test based balanced and integrated nutrient management and integrated water management practices as remedial measures. Efforts are also being made to promote organic farming in the country.

(e) No Sir,

(f) Does not arise.