NAAS calls for developing smart alternate fertilisers to achieve self sufficiency

Suggests increased use of biologicals, exploiting the potential of soil microbiome, improved composting techniques, crop breeding for enhanced NUE, soil health restoration, crop diversification and residue recycling

The National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), the apex body of agriculture scientists headed by director-general of Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), on Tuesday emphasised on strengthening research for development of smart alternate fertilisers among other measures to become self-sufficient in crop nutrients by 2047.

Addressing media after a day-long brainstorming session to develop a roadmap for achieving Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in fertilizers, ICAR’s DG M L Jat said that the roadmap should emphasise strengthening fertiliser research for development of smart alternate fertilisers, utilisation of unexploited indigenous minerals (glauconite, phosphate rocks, mica, polyhalite) and industrial by-products.