Discuss major policy initiatives taken by India to ensure fertiliser security and mitigate challenges arising out of the Russia-Ukraine war. ?150 words ? 10M

 India has undertaken several major policy initiatives to ensure fertiliser security and mitigate challenges arising from the Russia-Ukraine war. These initiatives aim to secure the supply of fertilisers, maintain agricultural productivity, and minimize the impact of disruptions in global fertiliser markets. Here are some key policy measures and examples:

1. Diversification of Fertiliser Sources: To reduce dependency on a single source, India has pursued efforts to diversify its fertiliser procurement. The government has encouraged the import of fertilisers from various countries, including Canada, Morocco, and Oman, to supplement the traditional sources like Russia and Ukraine. This diversification strategy helps ensure a steady supply and reduce vulnerability to disruptions in any one region.

Example: India increased imports of phosphatic and potassic fertilisers from countries like Morocco, Jordan, and Oman to offset the potential shortfall caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

2. Strategic Fertiliser Reserves: India has established strategic reserves of key fertilisers to ensure availability during periods of supply disruption. These reserves act as a buffer and provide a cushion against sudden price spikes or shortages. The government has been procuring fertilisers in advance and maintaining stockpiles to meet the agricultural demand.

Example: In response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, India decided to increase its strategic reserves of urea, diammonium phosphate (DAP), and other fertilisers to mitigate any potential shortage.

3. Promotion of Domestic Fertiliser Production: India has encouraged domestic production of fertilisers to enhance self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imports. The government has implemented policies and schemes to support and incentivize domestic fertiliser manufacturers, including subsidies, tax incentives, and measures to improve the availability of key raw materials.

Example: The "Make in India" campaign has been instrumental in promoting domestic production of fertilisers and attracting investments in the sector. It aims to enhance domestic manufacturing capacities and reduce reliance on imports.

4. Research and Development (R&D): The government has emphasized R&D efforts to improve fertiliser efficiency, develop alternative fertiliser technologies, and optimize nutrient management in agriculture. This includes promoting the use of precision farming techniques, nutrient-specific fertilisers, and biofertilisers to reduce dependence on traditional fertilisers.

Example: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and other research institutions are actively involved in developing and promoting innovative fertiliser technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability in agriculture.

5. International Cooperation and Bilateral Agreements: India has engaged in diplomatic efforts and bilateral agreements with fertiliser-producing countries to secure the supply of fertilisers and address potential disruptions. Collaborative initiatives and long-term contracts are pursued to ensure a stable supply chain.

Example: India signed an agreement with Morocco in 2022 to secure the supply of phosphoric acid, a key raw material for fertiliser production, for the next 15 years. This agreement strengthens the availability of phosphatic fertilisers in India.

These policy initiatives aim to safeguard India's fertiliser security, mitigate risks arising from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and ensure the uninterrupted supply of fertilisers for agricultural production. The proactive approach of diversification, strategic reserves, domestic production, research and development, and international cooperation helps India navigate challenges and maintain agricultural productivity even during periods of global uncertainty.