Andhra Pradesh Department is leading a transitional push in agriculture by opting for bio fertilisers instead of using chemical fertilisers in the farms. The initiative has been taken at Vijyawada in Andhra Pradesh. To achieve the goal of decreasing the usage of chemical fertiliser by 11%, the state is devising a strategy to include biological and organic inputs which enhance the quality of soil health, reduce the costs of inputs and improve the agricultural productivity.
Dilli Rao, the director of agriculture, said: “Our vision is to instruct farmers towards healthier soil and balanced crop nutrition. We’re addressing both productivity and sustainability by promoting bio-fertilisers like Nitrobacteria, Phosphobacteria, Neem cake, and nano-fertilisers such as Nano Urea and Nano DAP.” Adding that the crop structures have weakened due to the excessive use of nitrogen-based fertilisers such as urea in paddy and maize, and their vulnerability to pests and diseases.
Furthermore, he focused on natural inputs enriching the soil’s microbial life and enhancing water retention and reducing micronutrient deficiencies. “Bio-fertilisers activate beneficial microbes that make enzymes and hormones available to plants naturally. Over time, this strengthens plant immunity and reduces dependency on chemical treatments,” he stated.
Notably, the department’s plan consists of using 1 lakh metric tonnes through natural farming practices, 1.5 lakh metric tonnes by encouraging organic manures such as vermicompost and green manure, and the rest through advanced bio and nano fertilisers. Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu instructed officials to ensure smooth distribution through cooperative societies and Rythu Seva Kendras (RSKs). He assured farmers that 8.41 lakh metric tonnes of fertilisers are currently available in the state, including 2.89 lakh metric tonnes of urea. He also warned against bundling bio-fertilisers with standard fertiliser sales, adding that such practices would be prohibited and would invite strict action. The department is appealing the farmers to adopt these practices and utilise ecological inputs that do not harm the environment and humans, and lead to better output for crop yield as well as soil health.