Fertiliser sector urged to harness bio-fertilisers for sustainable agriculture and emission cuts
The Fertiliser Association of India is urging industry and policymakers to accelerate adoption of bio-fertilisers, citing their potential to cut emissions and reduce import reliance. Strategic investments, quality controls, and region-specific innovations are seen as pivotal for sustainable agricultural growth.
India’s fertiliser industry is at a pivotal moment, with mounting pressure to adopt sustainable practices and reduce its dependence on imported mineral fertilisers. The Fertiliser Association of India (FAI) has called for a comprehensive push towards bio-fertilisers, positioning them as a viable solution for achieving agricultural sustainability and environmental objectives.Bio-fertilisers: a strategic opportunity for Indian agricultureSuresh Kumar Chaudhari, Director General of FAI, highlighted at a recent training programme in Port Blair that bio-fertilisers represent an underutilised resource with the potential to fundamentally transform Indian agriculture. According to Chaudhari, even a modest goal of meeting 20 per cent of crop nutrient needs through bio-fertilisers could potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions from farmland by up to 40 per cent. This approach aligns closely with India’s commitments under international climate agreements and the nation’s efforts to improve soil health and resilience.Integrated nutrient management: lessons from long-term researchIndian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and state agricultural universities reinforce that balanced fertiliser use, tailored to regional needs, delivers better yields while safeguarding the environment.Three-pronged roadmap for bio-fertiliser adoptionChallenges and opportunities in bio-fertiliser scalingImplications for India’s agri-input industry and climate goalsLooking ahead: collaboration and policy support keysustainable agriculture, experts suggest that government incentives, regulatory clarity, and public-private partnerships will be essential for scaling up bio-fertiliser use. With robust investment in research and a renewed focus on farmer outreach, bio-fertilisers could emerge as a cornerstone of India’s green agriculture transformation, balancing economic, ecological, and food security objectives.