Government and other stakeholders must collaborate to mitigate the negative impact of chemical fertilizers on agriculture, according to Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. Speaking at a stakeholder workshop focused on promoting alternative nutrition to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers for soil health and sustainability, Minister Mandaviya stressed the need for concerted efforts to combat reduced soil fertility and vitality resulting from the imbalanced use of nutrients in agriculture.
Minister Mandaviya also highlighted the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers on both animals and humans, emphasizing the responsibility to increase agricultural production without compromising soil fertility and citizen health. He called for scientists to develop solutions that enhance agricultural and soil productivity while ensuring their accessibility and applicability for farmers.
Furthermore, Ramesh Chand, a member of Niti Aayog, emphasized the importance of sustainable farming practices and the active participation of all agricultural stakeholders in strengthening them. Chand noted that chemical fertilizers are popular due to their ease of use, but the workshop should serve as a platform to discuss ways to promote sustainability in Indian farming.
Rajat Kumar Mishra, Secretary of the Department of Fertilizers, discussed recent government measures to boost agricultural productivity and rejuvenate soil fertility. He highlighted the PM PRANAM (PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of Mother Earth) initiative, which aims to promote natural and organic farming, enhance farmer incomes, and ensure food security in the country.
Additionally, Manoj Ahuja, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, stressed the need to collaborate with agricultural universities to effectively communicate the benefits of these schemes to farmers.
To address the challenges posed by chemical fertilizers, comprehensive efforts from the government, scientists, stakeholders, and farmers are necessary. The negative impact on soil fertility and human health cannot be overlooked, and therefore, sustainable solutions for agricultural productivity must be developed. With the implementation of initiatives like PM PRANAM, along with collaboration and communication among key stakeholders, India can strive towards a balanced and sustainable agricultural sector that supports the welfare of farmers, safeguards the environment, and ensures food security.
