(PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth)
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
Launched: 2023
Aim
To encourage states and UTs to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and promote alternative, sustainable fertilization methods — protecting soil health and the environment.
Objectives
- Reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers.
- Promote balanced nutrient management (bio-fertilizers, organic manure, nano-urea).
- Support states that use less subsidized fertilizers through incentives.
- Conserve soil fertility and prevent groundwater contamination.
Key Features
- Incentive-based scheme:
- Savings from reduced fertilizer subsidy will be shared with states that cut chemical fertilizer usage.
- Funds can be used for promoting organic farming, bio-inputs, or alternative fertilizers.
- No separate budget allocation — implemented from existing fertilizer subsidy savings.
- Promotes awareness among farmers on sustainable soil practices.
Need for the Scheme
- Overuse of urea and DAP causing soil degradation and imbalance in NPK ratio.
- Rising fertilizer subsidy burden on the government.
- Environmental concerns like water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.