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Government Ensures Adequate Fertilizer Availability via Advance Planning and Global Partnerships

UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes

AgricultureSchemesEconomy

Why in news

The Government of India has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring timely and adequate fertilizer availability through advance planning, domestic production, and strategic import agreements. For 2025-26, total fertilizer requirement is estimated at 677.18 LMT, a ~4% increase over 2024-25, countering misinformation about a 41% demand surge.

Background

The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare assesses fertilizer needs before each crop season in consultation with state governments. The Department of Fertilizers coordinates domestic production, imports, and distribution to ensure uninterrupted supply to farmers.

Key facts

in5points

  1. Total fertilizer requirement for 2025-26 is estimated at 677.18 LMT, compared to 649.43 LMT in 2024-25 (approx. 4% increase).

  2. Government clarified that fertilizer demand has NOT increased by 41% in 2025-26.

  3. During Kharif 2026 (1 Apr to 14 Jul 2026), total consumption of major fertilizers (Urea, DAP, MOP, NPKS) was 151.74 LMT, versus 157.05 LMT in same period of Kharif 2025.

  4. Long-term import agreements signed for 2025-26: Saudi Arabia (31 LMT DAP), Jordan (2.50 LMT MOP), Morocco (25 LMT DAP/TSP), Russia (30.10 LMT DAP/NPK).

  5. These agreements have facilitated bulk availability and strengthened supply chain against global uncertainties.

Prelims pointers

  • Department of Fertilizers under Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
  • Key fertilizers: Urea, DAP (Di-ammonium Phosphate), MOP (Muriate of Potash), NPKS (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium-Sulphur)
  • LMT: Lakh Metric Tonnes
  • Kharif season: typically June-September; Rabi season: October-March
  • Long-term import partners: Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Morocco, Russia

Mains angles

  • GS3: Agriculture – Fertilizer subsidy, supply chain management, self-reliance in fertilizer production
  • GS2: Government policies and interventions – Role of advance planning and international partnerships
  • GS3: Economy – Impact of global uncertainties on fertilizer imports and food security