The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for the Kharif 2025 season, ensuring that Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers remain affordable for farmers. With a substantial budget allocation of Rs 37,216.15 crore, the move aims to support agricultural productivity by providing subsidized fertilizers at reasonable rates.
This allocation represents an increase of approximately Rs 13,000 crore compared to the budgetary requirement for the Rabi 2024-25 season, highlighting the government’s focus on strengthening the agricultural sector.
The freight subsidy on Single Super Phosphate (SSP) has been extended for the Kharif 2025 season, further easing transportation costs and ensuring a steady supply of fertilizers across the country.
The subsidy framework, based on approved rates, will be in effect from April 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025, allowing farmers to access essential fertilizers without financial strain. The decision aligns with global market trends, taking into account the fluctuating prices of key fertilizer inputs such as Urea, DAP, MOP, and Sulphur.
Under the NBS scheme, introduced in 2010, the government has been making 28 grades of P&K fertilizers available at subsidized rates through manufacturers and importers. This latest approval underscores the administration’s commitment to ensuring agricultural sustainability by maintaining a steady supply of fertilizers at controlled prices.
By rationalizing the subsidy structure in response to international pricing trends, the government aims to balance affordability with economic viability, benefiting millions of farmers nationwide.
