Organic fertilizers are enriching substances derived from a variety of organic sources like compost, cattle and poultry waste, and sewage. They can be classified into two main categories: bio-fertilizers and organic manure, in line with governmental regulations.
Bio-fertilizers: Nurturing the Soil
Bio-fertilizers consist of live microorganisms that are beneficial for land cultivation. These microorganisms are usually bound to solid or liquid carriers. They play a vital role in enhancing soil productivity, as well as crop yields. Some popular examples include Rhizobium, Azospirilium, Azotobacter, Phosphobacteria, Blue Green Algae (BGA), Mycorhiza, and Azolla.
Organic Manure: Boosting Crop Yield
Organic manure, unlike bio-fertilizers, refers to partially decomposed organic matter. This includes biogas plant residue, compost, and vermicompost. Organic manure supplies essential nutrients to the soil and crops, thereby improving farming output.
The Unexplored Potential of Organic Fertilizers in India
India’s rising economy could be significantly boosted by leveraging the potential of organic fertilizers. But how?
Capitalizing on Municipal Solid Waste
India generates over 150,000 tonnes of municipal solid waste (MSW) daily. Accounting for an 80% collection rate and 50% organic waste composition, India produces approximately 65,000 tonnes of organic waste every day. By diverting half of this waste towards biogas production, the government could decrease its reliance on imported fossil fuels and fertilizers.
Maximizing Biogas Effluents
Biogas plant effluent, otherwise known as digestate, is a valuable form of organic fertilizer. Not only can biogas be used for heating, electricity, and transportation (after upgrading), but the resultant digestate could also strengthen India’s second green revolution.
Enhancing Soil Fertility
Digestate has the potential to replenish continually depleting soil by providing organic carbon and other nutrients. Current bio-fertilizer production in India stands at over 110,000 tonnes, with 34 million tonnes of organic manure generated from various sources.
The Growing Popularity of Organic Farming
Organic farming has gained significant traction in India, catalyzed by increasing health concerns, urban population expansion, and consumer spending on food products. Consequently, the market size for Indian organic packaged food is expected to grow at a rate of 17% and surpass Rs 871 million by 2021.
Prominent Related Initiatives
Several schemes and initiatives have been launched to support the growth of organic fertilizers and organic farming. Some noteworthy ones include the Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme, Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, Sub-mission on AgroForestry, National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture, and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.
Understanding Bio-fertilizers: The Case of Blue-Green Algae
Blue-green algae, scientifically referred to as cyanobacteria, is a type of bio-fertilizer teeming with living organisms. It utilizes naturally available inputs like solar energy, nitrogen, and water to maintain soil fertility and bolster plant growth. The specialty of blue-green algae lies in its ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, under the influence of solar energy. This process significantly contributes to the improved growth and productivity of plants.