How the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) operates
Under the NBS scheme, the central government announces fixed per-kilogram subsidy rates annually or bi-annually for primary nutrients: Nitrogen (N), Phosphate (P), Potash (K), and Sulphur (S). Fertilizer manufacturing companies receive this subsidy directly, allowing them to retail complex NPK bags to farmers at subsidized Maximum Retail Prices (MRP).
- Per-kg nutrient rates: Subsidies are fixed based on nutrient content, with higher support during international price spikes.
- Uniform point of sale: Subsidized fertilizers are sold strictly through biometric POS machines at retail dealership points.
- Transparent MRP: The subsidized maximum retail price is legally mandated to be printed clearly on every 50 kg or 45 kg bag.
Major complex NPK fertilizer grades
- NPK 10:26:26: High phosphate and potash grade preferred for oilseeds, pulses, and sugarcane.
- NPK 12:32:16: High phosphate starter grade widely applied for cereals and potato basal dressing.
- NPK 20:20:0:13: Enriched with 13% sulphate sulphur, ideal for oilseeds, pulses, and sulphur-deficient alluvial soils.
- NPK 19:19:19: 100% water-soluble foliar grade utilized for drip fertigation in horticulture.
Purchasing through biometric POS machines
Farmers must purchase complex fertilizers from licensed cooperative societies or private retailers using their Aadhaar number through Point of Sale (POS) machines. Always insist on an official POS-generated printed receipt detailing the subsidized price and bag quantity.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Department of Fertilizers, Government of India ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What policy determines NPK fertilizer prices in India?
The Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) policy fixed by the central Department of Fertilizers governs complex fertilizer subsidies and pricing.
Why is Aadhaar authentication required to buy subsidized fertilizers?
Aadhaar authentication through POS machines ensures transparent tracking of retail sales and prevents illegal diversion.
Where can farmers check official fertilizer subsidies?
Official subsidy rates and guidelines are published on the Department of Fertilizers portal (fert.nic.in).
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More Fertilizers & Crop Nutrition guides
Ask Sakhi AI in your language, check live mandi prices or plan a loan with KisanPe tools.