An Atmanirbhar move – on fertiliser sector

Source– The post is based on the article “An Atmanirbhar move” published in the “The Indian Express” on 13th June 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Infrastructure

Relevance- Issues related to fertiliser sector

News– The article highlights the progress achieved by current government in fertiliser sector.

How has India’s department of fertilisers made significant strides in achieving self-reliance in the sector?

The government secured fertiliser supplies during the crisis precipitated by the Russia-Ukraine war. Despite facing challenges, the government has forged long-term agreements and created joint ventures with resource-rich nations.

It is supporting industry in identifying opportunities across the value chain by strengthening domestic operations, building long-term partnerships, investing in resource-rich geographies for securing raw materials and promoting alternate fertilisers and natural farming.

Industry has been encouraged to set up overseas joint ventures to secure raw materials. Joint venture plants have been set up in some countries with buy-back agreements and assured off-take agreements.

The government has also encouraged the domestic industry and public sector undertakings to sign long-term agreements for the import of raw materials such as ammonia, phosphoric acid, and sulphur.

These initiatives have enabled India to diversify its product portfolio and produce more NPK complexes. It offers not only a wider range of products to farmers but also ensures balanced nutrition.

There has been a remarkable improvement in the opening stocks of DAP, MOP and other NPK fertilisers in Kharif 2023. T

The Department of Fertilisers has positioned India as a key player in the global fertiliser supply chain.