Growing Dependence on Imported Fertilisers
India stands at a critical point in its agricultural journey. As the world’s second-largest consumer of mineral fertilisers, the country is expected to record fertiliser sales of nearly 72 million tonnes by 2025-26. However, India depends heavily on imports for both raw materials and finished fertiliser products, with nearly 90% of its requirement sourced from global markets. Consequently, geopolitical conflicts and supply chain disruptions continue to threaten the nation’s food security.
Global Uncertainty Highlights Supply Chain Vulnerabilities
Recent international developments, including the Ukraine conflict and tensions in West Asia, have exposed the risks associated with excessive import dependence. Any disruption in global fertiliser supplies can significantly impact agricultural production, increase costs, and create uncertainty for millions of farmers. Therefore, India must strengthen its fertiliser security strategy while reducing its exposure to external shocks.
Balancing Supply with Sustainable Usage
While securing adequate fertiliser supplies remains essential, improving the way fertilisers are used is equally important. Over the years, excessive dependence on nitrogen-based fertilisers, particularly urea, has created nutrient imbalances in the soil. As a result, soil health has deteriorated and fertiliser-use efficiency has declined.
As per The Economic Times, experts and policymakers are increasingly advocating a balanced nutrient management approach that promotes the optimal use of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash based on crop requirements and soil conditions.
Learning from Past Experiences
The government has repeatedly encouraged farmers to reduce excessive chemical fertiliser consumption. However, policymakers also recognize the need for a gradual transition. The experience of Sri Lanka’s abrupt fertiliser ban in 2021 serves as a cautionary example, as it resulted in lower crop yields and severe food shortages. Therefore, India aims to adopt a measured and science-based approach rather than sudden policy shifts.
Key Strategies for Fertiliser Reform
Restore Nutrient Balance
Farmers can improve productivity and soil health by applying nutrients according to soil-test recommendations. Balanced fertilisation reduces waste and enhances crop performance over the long term.
Increase Organic Matter in Soil
The use of compost, crop residues, and organic inputs can significantly improve soil structure and nutrient retention. Moreover, integrated nutrient management practices can increase nitrogen-use efficiency and reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers.
Promote Indigenous Alternatives
India has begun exploring locally available and environmentally friendly alternatives such as organic manure, biogas slurry, and biofertilisers. These options can reduce import dependence while supporting sustainable agriculture.
Biofertilisers Offer a Promising Solution
Biofertilisers contain beneficial microorganisms that help plants absorb nutrients more efficiently. Under favourable conditions, they can potentially replace up to 25% of conventional chemical fertiliser use. Additionally, they improve soil fertility through natural biological processes.
However, widespread adoption remains challenging. Biofertilisers require proper storage, careful handling, and suitable soil conditions to deliver consistent results. Furthermore, quality control and farmer awareness continue to be major concerns across the sector.
Strengthening Capacity and Quality Standards
To accelerate adoption, experts recommend establishing dedicated biofertiliser production and development centres across districts. At the same time, government agencies, research institutions, and fertiliser companies should invest in farmer education, product testing, and quality certification systems. Stronger monitoring mechanisms can also help ensure product reliability and build farmer confidence.
Moving Towards Long-Term Sustainability
Research conducted by agricultural institutions indicates that improved nutrient management and biofertiliser integration can reduce chemical fertiliser consumption by 25–30%. In the short term, India can aim to lower nitrogen application by 10–15%, while medium-term strategies could achieve savings of up to 25% over the next decade.
The Road Ahead
India must act decisively to reduce its dependence on imported fertilisers while maintaining agricultural productivity. By combining supply security, balanced nutrient management, and sustainable alternatives, the country can strengthen food security, improve soil health, and reduce vulnerability to global disruptions. Ultimately, coordinated efforts from policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and farmers will determine the success of this transition toward a more resilient agricultural future.
