Introduction

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved a special package of innovative schemes for farmers with a total outlay of Rs.3,70,128.7 crore. The package aims to boost the welfare and economic well-being of farmers by promoting sustainable agriculture. The initiatives will enhance farmers’ income, strengthen natural and organic farming, rejuvenate soil productivity, and ensure food security.

Urea Subsidy Scheme

One of the key components of the package is the continuation of the Urea Subsidy Scheme to ensure constant availability of urea to the farmers at the same price of Rs 266.50 per 45 kg bag excluding taxes and neem coating charges. Out of the approved package, Rs. 3,68,676.7 Crore have been committed for urea subsidy for three years (2022-23 to 2024-25). This is apart from the recently approved Nutrient Based Subsidy of Rs 38,000 Crore for Kharif season for 2023-24. The scheme is wholly financed by the Government of India through budgetary support.

Sulphur Coated Urea

Another important feature of the package is the introduction of Sulphur Coated Urea (Urea Gold) to address Sulphur deficiency of soil and save input costs for the farmers. Sulphur Coated Urea is a new type of fertilizer that has a coating of elemental sulphur on the surface of urea granules. The coating slows down the release of nitrogen and sulphur, making them available to the crops for a longer period. This reduces the need for frequent application of fertilizers and improves their efficiency. Sulphur Coated Urea also helps in reducing nitrogen losses due to leaching, volatilization, and denitrification.

Benefits for Farmers

The introduction of Sulphur Coated Urea will have multiple benefits for the farmers and the environment. According to the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Sulphur Coated Urea will:

• Increase crop yield by 10-15% due to balanced nutrition and improved soil health.
• Reduce urea consumption by 10-15% due to controlled release mechanism and higher nutrient use efficiency.
• Save irrigation water by 10-15% due to reduced leaching and evaporation losses.
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 10-15% due to lower nitrous oxide emission from soil.
• Enhance soil fertility by increasing organic matter content and microbial activity.