Question : SOIL HEALTH

(a) whether due to the extensive use of chemical fertilizers and neglect of ecological fertilization, the health of soil across the country is posing serious threat to future food security of the country;

(b) if so, the policies formulated by the Government during the last three years to ensure the health of soil used for agriculture in the country;

(c) the respective percentage use of chemical and organic fertilizer as a basic component for agriculture in the country;

(d) whether the Government has introduced any scheme with a view to promote the usage of organic fertilizers in the country considering the serious implications of chemical fertilization;

(e) if so, the details thereof;

(f) the details of the amount allocated and the implementation status of such schemes, State-wise;

(g) whether the Government is contemplating upon giving subsidy on organic/ bio-fertilization in the country; and

(h) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI ARUN YADAV)

(a): While per hectare consumption of chemical fertilizers in the country at 133 kg remains far less than that in many other developing countries, unbalanced use of fertilizers coupled with low addition of organic matter and neglect of micro and secondary nutrients over years have Resulted in multi-nutrient deficiencies and deterioration of soil health in.many parts of `the country, particularly in intensively cultivated Indo-Gangetic plains. Appropriate policies and measures are in place to ensure soil health and fertility.

(b) & (c): The policies formulated and the measures taken by the Government to ensure soil health and fertility, inter alia, include promotion of soil test based balanced and judicious use of chemical fertilizers, biofertilizers and locally available organic manures to maintain soil health and productivity. A new scheme, namely National Project on Management of Soil Health & Fertility has been introduced during 2008-09 to promote soil test based balanced and judicious use of chemical fertilizers in conjunction with organic manures. All such organic eco-friendly sources of nutrients presently available can supplement chemical fertilizers by nearly 25%.

(d) to (f): Yes, Madam. National Project on Organic Farming (NPOF) has been started w.e.f. 2004-05 to promote the use of organic fertilizers. The project, inter alia, promotes setting up of compost, vermi compost and bio-fertilizer production units. Organic farming is also being encouraged under flagship schemes such as RKVY, NHM and Macro Management. The State-wise details of funds released are given in Annexure-1,11 & III respectively.

(g): No, Madam.

(h): Does not arise.