Experts Warn of Fertiliser Supply Stress in Punjab Due to West Asia Conflict
Ludhiana: West Asia crisis may hit fertiliser supplies, warn agriculture varsity experts
Hindustan Times
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Experts from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) have raised concerns that the ongoing West Asia crisis could disrupt fertiliser supplies in India, particularly affecting Punjab's kharif season. With nearly 7.3 lakh tonnes of urea needed for paddy cultivation, reliance on imported fertilisers poses risks to crop productivity and farmer costs.
- 01India's dependence on imported fertiliser raw materials could lead to supply stress.
- 02Punjab requires nearly 7.3 lakh tonnes of urea for paddy cultivation this kharif season.
- 03Experts recommend diversifying crops and adopting balanced nutrient management.
- 04Overuse of nitrogen-heavy fertilisers is damaging soil health.
- 05Long-term sustainability requires reducing reliance on chemical fertilisers.
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Experts at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) have warned that escalating tensions in West Asia could disrupt fertiliser supplies, impacting India's agricultural sector, particularly in Punjab. The state, which cultivates paddy across 31.68 lakh hectares, requires approximately 7.3 lakh tonnes of urea for the kharif season. Dr. Rajeev Sikka and Dr. AS Dhatt highlighted India's heavy reliance on imported fertiliser components, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), urea, di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), and muriate of potash (MOP). This dependency makes the agricultural sector vulnerable to geopolitical issues and price fluctuations. Experts noted that the current fertiliser application is heavily skewed towards nitrogen, especially urea, leading to imbalanced nutrient application and long-term soil health issues. They recommend that farmers adopt balanced nutrient management practices, diversify crops, and consider alternatives that require less nitrogen. Strategies such as green manuring and integrating organic matter can enhance soil fertility and reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers. While the government assures adequate fertiliser stocks, the experts stress the importance of long-term sustainability through reduced dependency on nitrogen-heavy inputs.
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If fertiliser supplies are disrupted, farmers in Punjab may face increased input costs and reduced crop productivity, affecting their livelihoods.
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