India’s agricultural sector is undergoing transformation in fertiliser consumption. The country is striving to reduce reliance on imported high-analysis fertilisers such as urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), and muriate of potash (MOP). This shift is driven by economic necessity and the need for sustainable farming practices.
Import Dependency on Fertilisers
India heavily relies on imports for key fertilisers. MOP is entirely imported, as India lacks potash reserves. Urea production meets 85% of demand, but relies on imported liquefied natural gas. DAP is sourced from various countries, both as finished products and raw materials. This dependency strains foreign exchange reserves, especially with the depreciating rupee.
High-Analysis Fertilisers and Their Limitations
High-analysis fertilisers contain concentrated nutrients. Urea has 46% nitrogen, MOP has 60% potash, and DAP has 46% phosphorous and 18% nitrogen. Most crops do not require such high nutrient concentrations. Balanced fertilisation is essential, incorporating secondary nutrients and micronutrients for optimal crop growth.
Emergence of Ammonium Phosphate Sulphate (APS)
Ammonium phosphate sulphate (APS) is gaining popularity as a DAP alternative. It contains 20% nitrogen, 20% phosphorous, and 13% sulphur. Despite lower phosphorous content, APS effectively meets the nutrient needs of various crops, especially those requiring sulphur. Its production is more efficient, using less phosphoric acid compared to DAP.
Sales Trends and Market Dynamics
Sales of APS have surged, increasing from 4.9 million tonnes to 6.5 million tonnes in a year. In contrast, DAP sales have declined. APS is now the third most consumed fertiliser in India, surpassing single super phosphate. Its affordability and nutrient balance make it an attractive option for farmers.
Government Policies and Pricing
The Government of India has set maximum retail prices for DAP, creating a pricing disparity with APS. The MRP for DAP is higher than that of APS, making DAP less viable for farmers. This pricing strategy encourages the adoption of APS and other complex fertilisers.
Future of Fertiliser Consumption in India
The trend towards NPKS complex fertilisers is expected to continue. Sales are projected to reach 14 million tonnes, driven by the growing acceptance of APS. The government aims to promote nutrient use efficiency among farmers to optimise fertiliser application, thereby conserving foreign exchange.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of fertiliser imports on India’s economy and agriculture.
- What are the advantages of using ammonium phosphate sulphate over di-ammonium phosphate in crop production?
- Explain the role of government policies in shaping fertiliser consumption patterns in India.
- With suitable examples, comment on the importance of balanced fertilisation in sustainable agriculture.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of fertiliser imports on India’s economy and agriculture.
- India’s heavy reliance on imported fertilisers strains foreign exchange reserves, especially with a depreciating rupee.
- High import costs lead to increased financial burden on farmers and the government.
- Dependence on imports makes agriculture vulnerable to global market fluctuations and supply chain disruptions.
- Domestic production capacity is limited, particularly for potash, leading to a lack of self-sufficiency.
- Encouraging local alternatives could enhance agricultural sustainability and reduce economic risks.
2. What are the advantages of using ammonium phosphate sulphate over di-ammonium phosphate in crop production?
- APS has a balanced nutrient profile (20% N, 20% P, 13% S) suitable for a variety of crops, especially sulphur-hungry ones.
- It requires less phosphoric acid for production, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
- Lower phosphorous content in APS meets the actual nutrient needs of many crops, avoiding nutrient excess.
- Sales of APS are increasing, indicating farmer acceptance and market viability compared to declining DAP sales.
- APS is more affordable for farmers due to lower pricing compared to DAP, improving accessibility.
3. Explain the role of government policies in shaping fertiliser consumption patterns in India.
- The government sets maximum retail prices (MRP) for fertilisers, influencing farmer purchasing decisions.
- Subsidies for certain fertilisers, like DAP, affect their market competitiveness against alternatives like APS.
- Policies promoting balanced fertilisation encourage the adoption of diverse fertiliser types beyond high-analysis options.
- Regulatory measures can stimulate local production and reduce import dependency, enhancing food security.
- Government initiatives can support research and development in fertiliser alternatives, encouraging innovation in agriculture.
4. With suitable examples, comment on the importance of balanced fertilisation in sustainable agriculture.
- Balanced fertilisation ensures crops receive essential nutrients in appropriate ratios, improving growth and yield.
- For example, using APS provides a balanced supply of nitrogen, phosphorous, and sulphur, enhancing crop health.
- It prevents nutrient runoff and soil degradation, promoting long-term soil fertility and sustainability.
- Incorporating secondary and micronutrients addresses deficiencies, leading to healthier plants and better resistance to pests.
- Balanced fertilisation practices can increase farmer profitability by optimizing input costs and improving crop quality.
