During his inaugural speech at the 59th Fertiliser Association of India Annual Seminar 2023, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilisers and Health and Family Welfare, highlighted the substantial advancements achieved in India’s fertiliser sector under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He expressed how the sector successfully aided 14 crore farming families with timely fertilisers, advanced agronomic services, and amplified its global presence.
Under the seminar’s theme, “Innovations in Fertiliser and Agriculture Sectors,” Dr. Mandaviya underscored the government’s initiatives, particularly in supporting small and marginal farmers. He highlighted the efforts to stabilize fertiliser prices amid soaring global commodity rates, ensuring a steady supply and fostering a record agricultural output in contrast to global consumption decline.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the government’s drive towards self-sufficiency, reviving over 3 million tons of Urea capacity with additional plans for further capacity expansion. He stressed the significance of securing raw materials in the Phosphatic and Potassic sectors, encouraging partnerships in overseas ventures and mining.
The minister advocated integrated crop management, soil health improvement, and technological advancements to promote sustainable farming practices. He introduced the PM PRANAM initiative, urging the adoption of alternate fertilisers, organic farming, and resource conservation.
India’s technological interventions in agriculture were highlighted, with mentions of Nano fertilisers like Nano DAP and Nano Urea and the recent launch of the “NAMO Drone Didi” scheme, making drone spraying services accessible to farmers.
Dr. Mandaviya encouraged the development of smart nutrients and emphasized collaboration with drone manufacturers for cost-effective solutions. He acknowledged the establishment of close to 2 lakh Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendras as comprehensive agricultural service centers.
Concluding, Dr. Mandaviya urged the fertiliser fraternity to transition towards eco-friendly manufacturing and assured government support for stronger farmer-industry-government collaboration. Awards were presented to acknowledge excellence in various fields, and publications were launched during the event. Senior government officials and representatives from the industry graced the occasion, underlining the sector’s commitment to progress and innovation.