The government has ensured the adequate and timely availability of fertilizers across the country by increasing imports to bridge the gap between domestic production and rising demand.
The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has stated that there has been a significant increase in imports during the current financial year compared to the same period last year. Imports of urea rose sharply to 89.30 lakh tonnes from 48.70 lakh tonnes, while imports of Di-Ammonium Phosphate increased to 60.16 lakh tonnes from 43.09 lakh tonnes. The ministry added that the gap between demand and indigenous production of fertilizers is met through imports well in advance to ensure adequate and timely availability of fertilizers in the country.
The ministry said that fertilizer requirements are assessed by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in consultation with states. The assessment takes into account factors such as gross cropped area, irrigation coverage, past consumption trends, and crop-wise nutrient requirements based on soil health.