Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on behalf of all farmers for approving a substantial ₹38,000 crore fertiliser subsidy. This major subsidy was sanctioned under the Cabinet decision chaired by the Prime Minister, aimed at supporting the upcoming Rabi 2025-26 sowing season. Alongside this, Shri Chouhan reviewed the ongoing progress in India’s agriculture sector, highlighting excellent sowing and favourable conditions.
Fertiliser Subsidy Approval
The Cabinet’s approval of the ₹38,000 crore fertiliser subsidy ensures the availability of phosphorus and potassic (P&K) fertilisers, including widely used Di Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), at affordable prices for farmers. This subsidy is crucial amid rising global input costs, providing fiscal support to maintain balanced nutrient supply and promote sustainable crop production. The decision aligns with the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme and supports the Rabi crop cycle starting October 1, 2025, until March 31, 2026.
Agricultural Sowing and Progress
During a review meeting chaired by Shri Chouhan, it was conveyed that the Kharif 2025 sowing season was highly satisfactory:
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Paddy sown area reached 441.58 lakh hectares, exceeding last year’s coverage.
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Oilseeds covered 190.13 lakh hectares, prominently including soybean and groundnut.
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Pulses were sown on 120.41 lakh hectares, contributing to national nutritional security.
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Sugarcane cultivation extended over 59.07 lakh hectares, benefiting growers.
Favourable monsoon rains, consistent soil moisture, and improved water availability in reservoirs have contributed significantly to boosting agricultural productivity. Water storage in 161 reservoirs stands at 104.30% of last year’s levels and 115.95% of the ten-year average, ensuring irrigation needs are met effectively.
Outlook for Rabi Season and Crop Health
Harvesting of Kharif crops has already begun, covering around 27% of the area, while early Rabi sowing has started in several regions. The health of key crops such as onions, potatoes, and tomatoes is satisfactory. Rice and wheat stock levels exceed buffer norms, supporting food security.
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan credited the government’s farmer-friendly policies and strategic resource management for these successes, emphasizing ongoing efforts to further expand sowing areas, particularly for pulses and oilseeds, in the upcoming Rabi season.
Conclusion
The approval of the ₹38,000 crore fertiliser subsidy, combined with favorable weather and increased reservoir levels, provides a strong foundation for enhancing India’s agricultural output and food security ahead of the Rabi 2025-26 season. Continued government support and collaborative efforts across states aim to sustain record productivity and farmer prosperity.
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Source: PIB
