Ferilizer is one of the important inputs required to increase agricultural production and farmers’ income in India. India ranks second in the world and first among South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries in terms of total fertilizer consumption. Changes in government policies related to fertilizer distribution and use have significantly affected nutrient use ratios. Excessive use or misuse or unbalanced use of fertilizer nutrients is causing environmental degradation and climate change.
The compounded harmful effects of unbalanced fertilizer use are not only increasing soil and atmospheric pollution but also affecting water bodies (eutrophication) and posing a threat to biodiversity and human health. Excessive use of fertilizers leads to environmental pollution as their residual and unused amounts will become pollutants for air, water, and soil. It also initiates the process of eutrophication in water bodies, thereby reducing soil quality by killing soil microflora, etc. Excessive use of fertilizers also increases the acidity of the soil. Excessive use of fertilizers also disturbs the soil ecosystem which ultimately hampers the productivity of the soil.
Chemical fertilizers have their uses, but they also have hidden dangers. Whether used in the field or on lawns, applying more than can be used to help plants grow harms the environment and human health. Since the damage caused by chemical fertilizers is often long-term and cumulative, it may be wise to consider alternative and sustainable methods of fertilizing the soil. The environmental problems caused by the use of chemical fertilizers are bad and will take many years to solve. However, an immediate concern with chemical fertilizers is the impact on human health. At the very least, food crops produced using chemical fertilizers may not be as nutritious as they should be.
This is because chemical fertilizers are detrimental to plant health, resulting in crops that have low nutritional value. Plants will grow on slightly more than NPK, but they will be missing essential nutrients like calcium, zinc, and iron or will grow less well. It may affect the health of people who consume it. In the worst case, chemical fertilizers can increase the risk of developing cancer in adults and children and can adversely affect fetal brain development.
At present, there is a great need for balance in the use of fertilizers for the sake of environment and health. Educate farmers about best practices for fertilizer use, including correct amounts, timing, and application techniques. Farmers who gain more knowledge will be better equipped to make decisions. Implement targeted subsidy programs that focus on supporting small and marginalized farmers who face financial constraints.
This ensures that subsidies are given to those who need it most. Promote the implementation of precision agriculture techniques, such as soil testing and nutrient management strategies, to maximize fertilizer use based on particular crop and soil requirements. This reduces the negative impact on the environment and usage. Encourage organic farming methods that naturally increase soil fertility and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. This may benefit biodiversity and soil health.
Invest in research and development to create and encourage the use of nutrient-efficient and environmentally friendly fertilizers. Part of this is examining options that reduce impacts on the environment and human health. Reform fertilizer subsidy policies to ensure that they are efficient and transparent and do not encourage overuse. Consider moving to a nutrient-based subsidy system that focuses on supporting the application of specific nutrients rather than general fertilizers. Promote the use of INM technologies, which combine nutritional inputs from both organic and inorganic sources.
This strategy minimizes its negative impacts on the environment while maintaining soil fertility. Encourage crop rotation and diversification to interrupt the cycle of pests and diseases and reduce the need for continued high fertilizer inputs. To encourage and support the application of ecological principles in agricultural systems through agroecological practices that reduce dependence on external inputs and emphasize sustainability.
Ensure that policies reflect the needs and reality of local communities by involving farmers in community decision-making processes. As a result, people may feel more accountable and invest in sustainable farming practices. Adoption of best crop and fertilizer management practices, i.e. use of neem oil-coated urea, growing of nutrient efficient genotypes, balanced nutrient applications, adoption of preventive strategies, and organic farming practices facilitated by enabling policies can achieve a reduction of 20-30%. Can. Use of fertilizer.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India is making holistic efforts to ensure balanced use of fertilizers for major agricultural, horticultural, and medicinal crops. India needs to establish a well-defined comprehensive system that enforces stringent policies on balanced fertilizer use, besides facilitating integrated nutrient management and cultivation of efficient crop genotypes with locally available organic manure/crop residues. To make any amendment in the fertilizer subsidy program successful and long-term, the Central Government should also involve all concerned parties such as farmers, state governments, and fertilizer companies in the reform process.
Author is a TV panelist. He can be mailed at satywansaurabh3332@gmail.com
