On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet of India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a ₹41,534 crore (approximately $5.04 billion USD) nutrient-based fertiliser subsidy for the summer-sowing season, reflecting a nearly 12% increase from the previous cycle. This subsidy aims to maintain the price of 50-kg packages of diammonium phosphate (DAP) at ₹1,350 despite rising import costs, addressing challenges posed by the ongoing West Asian conflict. Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that while there is no immediate availability issue in India, hoarding by some individuals is detrimental. The nutrient-based subsidy system provides fertilizers at lower-than-market prices based on their phosphatic and potassic content, promoting responsible usage among farmers. The government aims to ensure food security as millions depend on subsidized fertilizers for crops essential to the country's food supply. With the recent ceasefire between Iran and the US, fertiliser manufacturers anticipate improved availability, which could ease cost pressures. Additionally, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has proposed direct transfers of the ₹1.71 lakh crore fertiliser subsidy to farmers' accounts to enhance distribution efficiency. India is also negotiating with various countries to secure a more diverse range of fertiliser imports.