In a significant move aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture practices and reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has granted approval to the Prime Minister’s PRANAM (Promotion of Research and Adoption of Nutrient Alternatives for Fertilizer Application in Agriculture) scheme. The scheme aims to incentivize the adoption of alternative fertilizers among farmers across the country.
The Prime Minister’s PRANAM scheme is part of the government’s broader vision to promote organic farming and address the environmental challenges associated with excessive use of chemical fertilizers. Under this scheme, the government will provide financial assistance and support to farmers who adopt alternative nutrient management practices, such as bio-fertilizers, organic manure, and microbial consortia.
Speaking about the scheme, Prime Minister [Name] emphasized the importance of sustainable farming practices. He stated, “Our government is committed to promoting sustainable agriculture and protecting the environment. The PRANAM scheme will encourage farmers to shift towards organic and natural alternatives, thereby reducing the harmful impact of chemical fertilizers on soil health and water resources.”
#CCEA approves PM-PRANAM to incentivise states to promote alternative #fertilizers.@sanjeebm77 reports the detailshttps://t.co/tbaJrPyC90
— Business Standard (@bsindia) June 28, 2023
The PM-PRANAM scheme will be implemented in collaboration with various stakeholders, including agricultural universities, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). These partners will play a crucial role in conducting research, developing innovative fertilizers, and providing technical support to farmers.
Farmers who choose to participate in the scheme will receive financial incentives, training programs, and technical guidance to help them adopt alternative fertilizers effectively. The scheme will also facilitate the establishment of nutrient production units and quality testing laboratories to ensure the availability of reliable and high-quality alternatives.
The government’s decision to promote alternative fertilizers aligns with its objective of doubling farmers’ income and achieving sustainable agricultural practices. By reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers, the scheme aims to enhance soil fertility, minimize environmental pollution, and improve overall farm productivity.
Various studies have indicated that excessive use of chemical fertilizers can have adverse effects on soil health, water quality, and human health. By encouraging the adoption of alternative fertilizers, the government aims to mitigate these negative impacts and create a more sustainable farming ecosystem.
The Prime Minister’s PRANAM scheme is expected to benefit millions of farmers across the country and contribute to the overall goal of building a self-reliant and environmentally conscious agriculture sector.
The scheme is set to be launched in the coming months, and the government has allocated a substantial budget to ensure its successful implementation. Through the PM-PRANAM scheme, the government aims to create a paradigm shift in the agricultural sector, promoting the use of organic and sustainable fertilizers and setting a path towards a greener and more prosperous future for Indian agriculture.