(a) whether deficiency of potassium has been noticed in the soil of agricultural land
throughout the country due to the shortage of fertilizers;
(b) if so, the details in this regard;
(c) the steps taken by the Government to check potassium deficiency in the soil of
agricultural land; and
(d) the assistance proposed to be provided to the farmers to increase the use of
fertilizers in farming?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI HUKUMDEO NARAYAN YADAV)
(a) to (c): There is no shortage of potassic fertilizers. Based on analysis of soils it is
noticed that the crop available potassium is in short supply in some of our soils. The
application of potassic fertilizers is recommended in such soils.
(d): Government gives subsidy/concession on fertilizers to keep their prices
affordable by the farmers. During 2001-02 a provision of Rs.14170 crores has been
made in the Budget for payment of subsidy/concession on sale of fertilizers.