About Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) Fertilisers
- Nature: Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilisers are chemical fertilisers that supply two essential plant nutrients: Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K).
- Phosphatic Fertilisers: Supply phosphorus, which is essential for root development, energy transfer, flowering, seed formation and crop maturity.
- Potassic Fertilisers: Supply potassium, which supports water regulation, enzyme activation, disease resistance and overall plant growth.
- Policy Framework: Subsidies on P&K fertilisers are governed by the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme, introduced with effect from 1 April 2010.
- Coverage: The Government provides subsidised fertilisers across 28 notified grades of P&K fertilisers, including Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP).
Major Types of P&K Fertilisers
1. Phosphatic Fertilisers
- Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP): A concentrated phosphorus fertiliser containing nitrogen and phosphorus.
- Single Super Phosphate (SSP): Supplies phosphorus along with sulphur and calcium.
- Mono-Ammonium Phosphate (MAP): Supplies nitrogen and phosphorus.
- Triple Super Phosphate (TSP): A concentrated phosphorus fertiliser.
2. Potassic Fertilisers
- Muriate of Potash (MOP): Also known as potassium chloride; it is a widely used source of potassium.
- Potassium Derived from Molasses (PDM): A potassium-containing fertiliser produced from molasses-based industrial processes.
3. Complex Fertilisers
- NPK Fertilisers: Supply nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in different proportions.
- NPS Fertilisers: Supply nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur.
- NPKS Fertilisers: Supply nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur.
Difference between P&K Fertilisers and Urea
| P&K Fertilisers | Urea |
| Primarily supply phosphorus and potassium, along with other nutrients in complex grades. | Primarily supplies nitrogen. |
| Covered under the NBS Scheme. | Not covered under the NBS Scheme. |
| Operate under a decontrolled pricing regime, subject to government oversight. | MRP is controlled by the Government. |
| Subsidy is linked to nutrient content. | Subsidy is provided under a separate fertiliser subsidy mechanism. |
Conclusion
Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers play an essential role in maintaining soil fertility and improving agricultural productivity. Through the Nutrient-Based Subsidy Scheme, the Government seeks to ensure their affordable availability, promote balanced nutrient application and strengthen India’s agricultural sustainability.
| This concept has been mentioned in the following article: Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme |