Nano Fertilizer Subsidy Scheme 2024: AGR-2 Yojana

nano fertilizers

Nano Fertilizer Subsidy Scheme 2024: AGR-2 Yojana Overview

Launch and Objective of the Scheme

  • The Nano Fertilizer Subsidy Scheme, also known as AGR-2 Yojana, was officially launched by Union Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, on July 6, 2024.
  • The scheme aims to boost agricultural productivity while reducing the cost of farming by providing a 50% subsidy on Nano fertilizers.
  • It is part of a broader initiative to promote eco-friendly farming by minimizing the use of chemical fertilizers and enhancing the soil’s nutrient profile.

Key Targets

  • Initially, the government aims to conduct 1,270 demonstrations of Nano DAP in 413 districts and 200 trials of Nano Urea Plus in 100 districts across the country.
  • These trials will focus on reducing chemical fertilizer usage and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Nano Fertilizer Features and Benefits

  • Nano fertilizers are in liquid form, making them easier to mix with water and spray on crops.
  • They help to restore the nutrient content in the soil, which is often depleted by traditional chemical fertilizers.
  • These fertilizers are compact and easy to transport. For example, half a kilogram of liquid Nano Urea is equivalent to a 45 kg bag of conventional fertilizer.
  • The initiative will contribute to reducing environmental damage caused by chemical fertilizers and encourage organic farming practices.

Subsidy and Accessibility

  • Under this scheme, farmers can avail up to a 50% subsidy on Nano fertilizers.
  • Farmers are encouraged to shift away from traditional chemical fertilizers to ensure the scheme’s success.
  • The fertilizers will be readily available at local fertilizer shops, and no formal application process is required to avail of the subsidy.

Promoting Organic Agriculture

  • Along with the launch of the Nano Fertilizer Subsidy Scheme, the government also introduced India’s Organic Wheat Flour, produced by National Cooperative Organic Limited.
  • This aligns with the government’s aim to promote organic farming and reduce the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers on the environment.

Eligibility Criteria

  • The scheme is open to all farmers across India, regardless of income level.
  • The only prerequisite is that the applicant must be an Indian citizen involved in farming.

Documents Required

  • No specific documentation is required to avail of the subsidy. Farmers can purchase Nano fertilizers like they buy traditional fertilizers.

Application Process

  • There is no need to apply for the Nano Fertilizer Subsidy Scheme. Farmers can directly buy the subsidized Nano fertilizers from nearby outlets.

Nano Fertilizers: Key Innovations

  • Nano DAP and Nano Urea Plus are developed using nanotechnology, making them more efficient and easier to handle compared to traditional fertilizers.
  • A single container of these liquid fertilizers is equivalent to a large bag of conventional fertilizers, making transportation and storage simpler.

Purpose of the Scheme

  • The scheme aims to address two significant issues: soil nutrient depletion due to excessive chemical fertilizer use and the increasing cost burden on farmers who have to apply more fertilizers to maintain productivity.
  • By promoting Nano fertilizers, the government seeks to improve soil fertility and reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers.

FAQs

  • What is the Nano Fertilizer Subsidy Scheme?
    The scheme provides a 50% subsidy on liquid fertilizers like DAP and Nano Urea Plus to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and promote eco-friendly farming.
  • Who can benefit from the scheme?
    All farmers in the country can benefit from the Nano Fertilizer Subsidy Scheme.
  • Is there an application process for the subsidy?
    No, farmers can purchase Nano fertilizers directly from any local fertilizer shop with the subsidy included.

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