Crisis and Importance of Soil and Fertiliser in Indian Agriculture

Soil and Fertiliser

Soil is one of Earth’s most valuable natural resources, forming the base upon which agriculture thrives. It takes nature over a thousand years to create just 2–3 centimetres of topsoil, a layer critical for growing crops. This topsoil supports 95% of the food we eat, making its preservation essential for human survival. Recognising its importance, World Soil Day is celebrated every year on December 5. The theme for 2024, “Caring for Soils – Measure, Monitor, and Manage,” highlighted the increasing nutrient deficiencies in soils and the urgent need to address them.

The quality of soil determines agricultural success, and fertilisers have played a major role in enhancing soil productivity. By providing essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), fertilisers have helped farmers grow higher-yielding crops. However, over time, the imbalance in fertiliser use and declining soil health have raised serious concerns. These challenges must be tackled to ensure the future of farming and food security.

The Diversity of Indian Soils and Their Challenges

India’s rich geography, climate, and vegetation have resulted in diverse soil types, each suited for different crops. Alluvial soils, found in the northern plains, are extremely fertile and ideal for growing wheat, rice, and sugarcane. Black soils, common in the Deccan Plateau, are known for their water retention and are perfect for cotton farming. Red and laterite soils, found in southern and eastern regions, require careful management to support crops. In contrast, arid soils, found in deserts like Rajasthan, are sandy and less fertile, presenting significant challenges for agriculture.

Despite this diversity, Indian soils face severe nutrient deficiencies. Only 5% of soils have enough nitrogen, and just 40% have adequate phosphate. Potash is sufficient in only 32% of soils, and organic carbon, crucial for soil fertility, is present in only 20%. Moreover, micronutrients like sulphur, zinc, and boron, which are vital for plant growth, are often lacking. These deficiencies make it harder for farmers to produce healthy crops and meet the demands of a growing population.

Fertilisers: Their Role and Problem of Imbalance

Fertilisers are indispensable for agriculture, replenishing nutrients that soil lacks. India’s Green Revolution in the 1960s marked a turning point in its agricultural history. With the help of fertilisers, high-yield seeds, and better irrigation, the country transitioned from food scarcity to self-sufficiency and even became a major exporter of crops. Between 2020 and 2023, India exported an impressive 85 million tonnes of cereals, even amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, India stands as the largest exporter of rice, thanks in part to the timely availability of fertilisers.

However, the overuse of fertilisers, particularly urea, has created significant problems. Urea, a nitrogen-rich fertiliser, is heavily subsidised and priced at just $70 per tonne, making it the cheapest in the world. This affordability has led to its excessive use, disrupting the balance of nutrients in the soil. Farmers often neglect phosphorus and potassium, which are equally important for crop health. For example, in Punjab, farmers use 61% more nitrogen than recommended but 89% less potassium, resulting in lush greenery but lower grain yields. Similar imbalances are observed in states like Telangana, where nitrogen is overused by 54%, while potassium is underused by 82%.

Environmental Impact of Fertiliser Misuse

The misuse of fertilisers does not just harm soil health—it also has serious environmental consequences. Excessive nitrogen application releases nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas that is 300 times more harmful than carbon dioxide. This contributes significantly to global warming. Besides, nitrogen runoff pollutes rivers, lakes, and other water bodies, causing uncontrolled algae growth. This phenomenon, known as eutrophication, depletes oxygen in the water, killing fish and other aquatic life.

Moreover, the efficiency of fertiliser use in India is worryingly low. Only 35–40% of the nutrients applied are utilised by crops, while the rest is wasted. This inefficiency not only increases environmental pollution but also represents a significant economic loss for farmers. To make matters worse, around 20–25% of subsidised urea is diverted for non-agricultural purposes or smuggled to neighbouring countries, further exacerbating the problem.

Reforming Fertiliser Policies and Practices

To address these challenges, reforms in fertiliser policies and farming practices are urgently needed. One of the most important steps is to deregulate fertiliser prices. By removing price controls and providing farmers with direct income transfers in the form of digital coupons, the government can encourage balanced nutrient use. This approach has been successful in other sectors like cement and diesel, and it could bring similar benefits to agriculture by promoting innovation and efficiency in the fertiliser industry.

Another crucial reform is the promotion of balanced fertiliser use. Farmers need to be educated about the importance of applying nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the right proportions. The use of micronutrients like zinc, boron, and sulphur, often overlooked, must also be encouraged to improve crop productivity and soil health. Organic fertilisers, such as compost and manure, offer a natural way to enrich soils without harming the environment. Recycling crop residues and planting legumes can further restore soil organic carbon, making soils more fertile.

Role of Technology and Government Support

Technology can play a vital role in improving soil health and fertiliser use. Initiatives like the Soil Health Card Mission provide farmers with personalised recommendations based on soil testing. Digital tools like remote sensing and mapping allow scientists to monitor soil conditions and develop targeted solutions. Integrating data from soil health cards, land records, and fertiliser sales can help policymakers design better subsidy systems and ensure that resources reach the right farmers.

The government must also invest in educating farmers about sustainable farming practices. Awareness campaigns and training programmes can help farmers understand the long-term benefits of balanced fertiliser use and soil conservation. Clear communication is essential to ensure that farmers see these reforms as beneficial for their livelihoods and the environment.

Benefits of Reforming Fertiliser Use

Reforming fertiliser use and soil management practices can bring widespread benefits. Healthier soils will lead to higher crop yields and better-quality produce, ensuring food security for the growing population. Farmers will benefit from lower input costs and higher profits, improving their overall well-being. At the same time, reducing nitrogen overuse will minimise greenhouse gas emissions and protect water resources, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

These reforms will also strengthen India’s fertiliser industry, encouraging innovation and efficiency. By focusing on sustainability, the industry can replicate the success of India’s pharmaceutical sector, becoming a global leader in eco-friendly agricultural solutions.

Conclusion