Question : BAN ON IMPORT OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS

(a) whether the subsidy being provided on the fertilizers has resulted into the loss of fertility of the soil and the environmentalists are concerned about it;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether it is also a fact that a large area of land has become barren due to the excessive use of chemical fertilizers;

(d) if so, whether the Government propose to impose ban on the use and import of chemical fertilizers;

(e) if so, the details thereof;

(f) if not, the reasons therefor;

(g) whether the Government propose to provide assistance to cowsheds for the promotion of bio-fertilizers; and

(h) if so, the time by which it is likely to be done and if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS (SHRI S. B. MOOKHERJEE)

(a) & (b): The subsidy/concession on fertilizer is being paid to make available fertilizers at affordable prices to the farmers. This policy of the Government has resulted in the increased consumption of fertilizer followed by increased crop production and the country attaining self-sufficiency in meeting the requirement of food grains. However, use of fertilizer is recommended on soil test basis for maximizing efficiency and minimizing nutrient losses. The average consumption of fertilizer in India is about 95 Kg. NPK per ha which is lower than many countries in the West and even when compared with that in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. This level of consumption cannot be called as concern for environment.

(c): There are no such reports of land having become barren due to use of chemical fertilizers in the country. Existing consumption levels are, however, not considered as excessive.


(d) to (f): In view of (c) above, do not arise.

(g) & (h): There is no proposal in any of the schemes to provide assistance to cow sheds. However, Government provides assistance for production and promotion of bio-fertilizers (bacterial fertilizers), through the schemes titled:


(i) ‘Development and use of Bio-fertilizers’ where support is given for production of bio-fertilizers; and

(ii) Technology Mission on Pulses and Oilseeds where financial support is given for use of bio-fertilizers.