(a) whether the Government proposes to take steps to ensure adoption of geo-referenced
sampling and analysis of soil to develop the appropriate grades of customized fertilizers;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government in this regard; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CHEMICALS & FERTILIZERS (SHRI SRIKANT KUMAR JENA)
(a) to (c): A new scheme namely, the National Project on Management of Soil Health and Fertility has been
launched during 2008-09 and unter the scheme, provision has been made for preparation of digital district
soil maps (Using Global Positioning System) and soil fertility monitoring system by ICAR/State Agriculture
Universities. In order to promote balanced use of fertilizer,the concept of customized fertilizer has been
introduced in the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985 and the guidelines have also been brought out.
These fertilizers are crop and rea specific. So far, 17 such customized fertilizer grade have been specified
under the Fertilizer Control Order, 1985.