Fertiliser growth, imbalances and subsidies: trends and implications

This paper examines trend in fertiliser use at national and state level and estimates imbalances in use of plant nutrients in different regions. The paper estimates regional disparities in fertiliser use and in benefits of fertiliser subsidy from different angles. Trend in fertiliser subsidy is presented in nominal and real terms and distortions caused by the subsidies are discussed at length. Productivity of fertiliser is compared across states to find out the pockets where fertiliser use needs to be promoted most to get the best return. Finally, implications of reduction in fertiliser subsidies are seen on growth of output and food security, and a way out is explored to contain subsidy bill without causing adverse impact on production.