Soil Fertility at Risk: Excessive Nutrient Use in Agriculture Poses Threat, says Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya

Government and agricultural stakeholders gathered at a workshop to tackle the urgent issue of excessive chemical fertilizer usage in agriculture. The workshop, titled "Strategy for Promoting Alternative Nutrition to Reduce Dependence on Chemical Fertilizers for Sustainable Soil Health," aimed to find solutions to counteract the decline in soil fertility caused by imbalanced nutrient application.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to mitigate the negative impacts of chemical fertilizers on agriculture. He expressed concerns about the adverse consequences on human and animal health, which have been observed in areas with excessive fertilizer use. Dr. Mandaviya stressed the need to increase agricultural production while ensuring soil fertility and the well-being of citizens. He called upon the scientific community to develop accessible and implementable solutions that enhance agricultural and soil productivity.

In addition to scientists, the Minister highlighted the significance of regular consultations between the government and agricultural stakeholders. Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of incorporating their suggestions and feedback into policies to promote sustainable farming practices nationwide.

Prof. Ramesh Chand acknowledged the convenience of chemical fertilizers but stressed the priority of sustainable farming practices in India. He regarded the workshop as an interactive platform and urged all stakeholders to actively participate for fruitful outcomes. Prof. Chand emphasized the necessity of agricultural solutions that prioritize farmers' welfare, environmental health, and the strengthening of the agricultural sector.

Rajat Kumar Mishra, Secretary of the Department of Fertilizers, highlighted recent government initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and rejuvenating soil fertility. He announced the launch of PM PRANAM (PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth) with a substantial allocation of Rs. 3,70,128 crores. PM PRANAM aims to promote natural and organic farming, restore soil productivity, increase farmer incomes, and ensure food security in the country. Mishra also emphasized the role of Sulphur coated Urea, known as Urea Gold, in addressing soil deficiencies and helping farmers reduce input costs and increase agricultural incomes.

Manoj Ahuja, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, commended the historic decision to implement PM PRANAM and recognized the need for sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate the harmful effects of chemical fertilizers. He called for cooperation with agricultural universities to disseminate the message and benefits of these schemes to farmers at the grassroots level.

The workshop witnessed the participation of various stakeholders, including Neeraja Adidam, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Vice Chancellors of Agricultural Universities, State Agriculture Officers, manufacturers, distributors, farmer groups, NGOs, and senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, and NITI Aayog.

Their presence demonstrated the commitment of diverse stakeholders to address the challenges posed by chemical fertilizers and strive towards sustainable agriculture for the nation's progress.