Cabinet Approves Nutrient-Based Subsidy for Rabi 2025-26
In a major decision to support farmers, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for the Rabi 2025-26 season. The total subsidy outlay stands at ₹37,952 crore, reinforcing the government’s commitment to affordable fertilizers and sustainable agriculture.
What is the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme?
Introduced in 2010, the NBS scheme provides subsidies based on the nutrient content in fertilizers—Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), and Sulphur (S)—instead of a fixed rate per bag. This promotes balanced fertilizer use, reduces urea overuse, and improves soil health.
Key Highlights of the Rabi 2025-26 NBS Rates
- Subsidy Allocation: ₹37,952 crore for Phosphatic & Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, including DAP, urea, and other nutrients.
- Revised Subsidy Rates (per kg):
- Nitrogen (N): ₹X.XX (increase/decrease from last season)
- Phosphorus (P): ₹X.XX
- Potassium (K): ₹X.XX
- Sulphur (S): ₹X.XX
- Farmer Benefits: Ensures stable fertilizer prices despite global market volatility.
- Soil Health Boost: Encourages balanced fertilization, improving crop yields.
Why This Decision is Important
✅ Affordable Farming: Protects farmers from rising input costs.
✅ Soil Conservation: Reduces urea dependency, preventing soil degradation.
✅ Global Price Protection: Shields farmers from international fertilizer price swings.
Farmer & Industry Reactions
Farmers’ groups, including the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, welcomed the move, calling it “a timely relief before Rabi sowing.” However, experts suggest expanding soil health cards and organic farming to reduce chemical fertilizer reliance.
Challenges & the Road Ahead
⚠ Leakage Risks: Stronger monitoring needed to prevent subsidy misuse.
⚠ Environmental Impact: Excess synthetic fertilizers harm soil & water—sustainable alternatives must be explored.
⚠ Fiscal Balance: High subsidies strain the budget; long-term solutions are crucial.
Conclusion
The ₹37,952 crore NBS approval for Rabi 2025-26 strengthens India’s agricultural resilience and farmer welfare. By ensuring affordable fertilizers and balanced soil nutrition, this decision supports food security and sustainable farming.
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