Context:
• The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹37,952 crore fertilizer subsidy for the rabi season (Oct 1, 2025 – Mar 31, 2026), with increased support for phosphorus and sulphur-based fertilizers to shield farmers from rising global prices.
Key Highlights:
- Total Subsidy Allocation
- Cabinet cleared ₹37,952 crore for rabi 2025–26 fertilizer subsidies.
- This is ₹14,000 crore higher than the previous rabi season (2024).
- Nutrient-Wise Subsidy Decisions
- Subsidy on phosphorus (P) and sulphur (S) raised by ₹736 crore.
- Subsidy rates for nitrogen (N) and potash (K) remain unchanged from the kharif season.
- Support Measures for Availability
- A special package ensures smooth supply of DAP (di-ammonium phosphate) and TSP (triple super phosphate) to farmers.
Significance
-
The subsidy increase aims to keep fertilizers affordable and maintain crop viability during the winter cropping cycle.
• Revised rates:
- Phosphate subsidy increased to ₹47.96 per kg
- Sulphur subsidy increased to ₹2.87 per kg
• While fixing the new subsidy structure, the government assessed: - International import prices
- Domestic nutrient requirements
- Fiscal subsidy responsibilities
• Ensuring the availability of key fertilizers like DAP and TSP is critical, as rabi crops—especially wheat, mustard, pulses—require balanced nutrient application.
• The move strengthens input stability for farmers and helps mitigate risks of price spikes, ensuring sustained agricultural productivity.