(a) whether due to continuous use of chemicals and fertilizers in farms, the soil is gradually
losing its fertility and the health ofthe people is being adversely affected;
(b) if so, whether the ICAR has conducted any tests in this regard;
(c) if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether ICAR has developed any alternative to potash;
(e) if so, the details thereof; and
(f) the steps the Government propose to take to encourage organic farming among farmers?
MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR)
(a) to (f): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (1) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 393 DUE FOR REPLY ON 23RD AUGUST, 2004.
(a): The average consumption of fertilizers and pesticides in the country is 92.1 kg/ha and 0.57 kg/ha (active ingredient) respectively which is far less than many developing/developed countries. This level of consumption is not considered to cause decline in soil fertility and adversely affect the health of the people.
(b)&(c): rCAR has been conducting long term studies on fertilizer use and pesticide
residues. It has been established that the prolonged use of imbalanced fertilizers may cause problems of nutrient deficiencies and deterioration of soil health and crop productivity. Therefore, to overcome this ill-effect, the Government is promoting Integrated Nutrient Management which includes soil test based balanced and judicious use of chemical fertilizers in conjunction with organic manures and Bio-fertilizers for sustaining soil health and productivity. Government is also promoting Integrated Pest Management to overcome the ill-effects associated with the misuse of chemical pesticides.
(d)&(e): No, Sir. However, rCAR is recommending the recycling of crop residue, which
contains above 75% of the absorbed potash. Besides, rCAR is conducting experiments on enrichment of phospho compost with waste mica, which is a potash bearing mineral available in the country.
(f): The `National Project on Organic Farming` has been approved with an outlay of Rs.57.05 crores for implementation during 10th Plan for production, promotion, market development and certification of organic produce on a pilot basis.