Agriculture ยท GS3
Nutrient-based subsidy for Kharif 2026
One line
The Cabinet approved nutrient-based subsidy rates for phosphatic and potassic fertilisers for the 2026 Kharif season.
Summary
Fertiliser support affects farm costs, nutrient use, imports, soil health, and fiscal expenditure. Nutrient-wise support seeks to give manufacturers and farmers a price signal beyond a single product.
PYQ pattern
UPSC frequently connects fertiliser subsidies with soil imbalance, import dependence, farm economics, and nutrient-use efficiency.
Core notes
- NBS applies to notified phosphatic and potassic fertilisers.
- Subsidy is fixed according to nutrient content, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potash, and sulphur where applicable.
- Urea follows a different subsidy arrangement.
- Balanced fertilisation also needs soil testing, extension, and organic-matter management.
Prelims lens
- Kharif crops are generally sown with the southwest monsoon.
- Phosphorus supports root and energy-transfer processes; potassium supports water regulation and stress tolerance.
- NBS does not mean every fertiliser has the same retail price.
MCQ 1
The nutrient-based subsidy discussed here applies primarily to:
- A. Phosphatic and potassic fertilisers
- B. Farm machinery only
- C. Irrigation electricity only
- D. Crop insurance premiums
Reveal answerHide answer
A
The Cabinet decision set NBS rates for notified P&K fertilisers.
MCQ 2
Which statement is correct?
- A. Urea is governed by exactly the same NBS arrangement.
- B. Balanced fertilisation depends only on subsidy rates.
- C. Nutrient content is relevant to NBS calculation.
- D. Potassium has no role in plant stress tolerance.
Reveal answerHide answer
C
Subsidy is linked to nutrient content. Urea has a separate support framework.
Mains
Question, 10 marks, 150 words: Evaluate nutrient-based fertiliser subsidy as a tool for affordability and balanced plant nutrition.
Approach:
- Explain NBS and its scope.
- Discuss farm costs, imports, fiscal burden, and nutrient imbalance.
- Note the separate treatment of urea.
- Suggest soil testing, precision application, and gradual price reform.