Nutrients crops need
- Primary: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K)
- Secondary: calcium, magnesium and sulphur
- Micronutrients: zinc, boron, iron, manganese, copper, molybdenum, chlorine and nickel
Common fertilizers in India
- Urea: 46% nitrogen; neem-coated urea is the standard form
- DAP: 18% N and 46% P₂O₅
- MOP (muriate of potash): 60% K₂O
- SSP (single super phosphate): 16% P₂O₅ plus about 11% sulphur
- Complex NPK grades such as 10:26:26 and 12:32:16, and water-soluble grades such as 19:19:19
Prices and subsidy
The retail price of urea is controlled by the government, and phosphatic and potassic fertilizers are subsidised under the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme. Buy from licensed dealers, pay the printed price and always take a bill.
Use it right
- Test your soil (Soil Health Card) and follow the recommendation for your crop.
- Split nitrogen into two or three doses instead of applying it all at once.
- Combine with organic manure or compost to keep soil healthy.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Soil Health Card portal ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
How much fertilizer should I apply?
It depends on your soil test and crop. Use your Soil Health Card recommendation or ask your agriculture officer.
Why is urea neem-coated?
Neem coating slows nitrogen release so more reaches the crop, and it discourages diversion of agricultural urea to non-farm uses.
Are fertilizers subsidised?
Yes. Urea's retail price is controlled, and P and K fertilizers are subsidised under the Nutrient Based Subsidy scheme.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More Fertilizers & Crop Nutrition guides
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