Potash Fertilizer 50 kg Bag: MOP, NBS Subsidy, and Pricing

The pricing of a 50 kg bag of potash fertilizer in India is determined by global import contracts and the central government Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates. Potash fertilizers, primarily Muriate of Potash (MOP 0-0-60) and Sulphate of Potash (SOP 0-0-50), supply essential potassium necessary for crop vigor, grain filling, and drought tolerance under the Fertilizer Control Order.

Last reviewed: 10 November 2026

Key facts

From KisanPe's verified data. Confirm prices and doses with the seller, label or official source before acting.

Suitable crops: Paddy, Wheat, Sugarcane, Cotton
Ideal crop stage: Basal sowing and mid-stage earthing-up / flowering
Common brands: IPL (Indian Potash Limited), IFFCO, Coromandel, RCF Trombay

Import Economics and Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS)

India possesses no commercial potash mineral deposits and imports 100% of its agricultural potassium demand from global mining nations.

Under the NBS policy administered by the Department of Fertilizers, the central government announces fixed per-kilogram subsidies on potassium (K), keeping farm-gate prices affordable for cultivators.

Muriate of Potash (MOP 0-0-60): The primary potassium source for broad-acre crops like paddy, wheat, maize, and sugarcane; contains 60% K2O.
Sulphate of Potash (SOP 0-0-50): A premium chloride-free grade containing 50% K2O and 17.5% Sulphur, preferred for chloride-sensitive horticultural crops.
Aadhaar POS verification: Subsidized fertilizers must be purchased through Point of Sale (POS) machines with biometric or Aadhaar verification.
Price transparency: Authorized retail prices are printed on every 50 kg bag and tracked on the national mobile Fertilizer Management System (mFMS).

Agronomic Benefits and Balanced Application

Potassium regulates stomatal conductance, enzyme activation, and carbohydrate movement from vegetative leaves to harvestable grains and fruits.

Aligning potash application with Soil Health Card recommendations prevents luxury consumption and lowers cultivation expenses.

Basal application: Apply MOP at the time of final land preparation or sowing to ensure root zone availability throughout early growth.
Split doses: In sandy soils prone to leaching, split potash application between basal and top-dressing phases.
Avoid over-application: Excessive potash can induce secondary magnesium or calcium deficiencies in certain soil types.

Official source

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Department of Fertilizers ↗

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Common questions

Why does the price of a 50 kg potash bag vary across seasons?

Because India imports all raw potash, retail prices fluctuate based on global benchmark import costs and semi-annual government NBS subsidy revisions.

How can a farmer verify the maximum retail price of potash fertilizer?

Check the printed MRP on the bag, request a digital POS receipt, or verify rates on the Department of Fertilizers portal (fert.nic.in).

What is the key difference between MOP and SOP potash fertilizers?

MOP contains chloride and 60% K2O for general field crops, while SOP is chloride-free with 50% K2O and 17.5% Sulphur, ideal for sensitive horticulture.

General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.

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