India has significantly strengthened its fertilizer security over the past 12 years through higher domestic production, strategic imports, and sustained subsidy support. Despite global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions, the Government of India has ensured uninterrupted fertilizer availability for farmers while maintaining affordable retail prices.
Domestic Fertilizer Production Reaches New Highs
A major achievement has been the expansion of domestic urea production capacity. Since 2014, six new urea plants have been established, adding an annual production capacity of 76.2 lakh metric tonnes (LMT). Two additional urea plants with a combined capacity of 25.4 LMT are expected to commence operations soon.
India’s urea production increased from 225 LMT in 2014-15 to a record 314.07 LMT in 2023-24. During 2024-25, domestic production remained robust at 306.67 LMT.
The phosphatic and potassic (P&K) fertilizer sector has also expanded considerably. Production increased from 159.54 LMT in 2014-15 to an all-time high of 211.22 LMT in 2024-25, supported by investments from both public and private sector companies.
Historic Fertilizer Stocks for Kharif 2026
To ensure adequate supplies for the Kharif 2026 season, the government implemented multiple measures to address global logistical challenges, including shipping disruptions and raw material sourcing constraints.
Against the revised fertilizer requirement of 383.9 LMT, India currently holds approximately 195.79 LMT of stock, representing more than 51% of the projected demand. The opening stock for Kharif 2026 stands at around 200.98 LMT, significantly higher than the conventional buffer level.
Domestic post-crisis fertilizer production reached 118.15 LMT, while strategic imports and international procurement efforts added substantial volumes to overall availability.
Fertilizer Prices Remain Affordable for Farmers
Despite volatility in international fertilizer markets, retail prices for Indian farmers have remained unchanged due to government subsidy support.
| Fertilizer | Global Price | Indian Farmer Price |
|---|---|---|
| Urea (45 kg) | Over ₹4,100 per bag | ₹266.50 |
| DAP (50 kg) | Over ₹5,000 per bag | ₹1,350 |
The price support mechanism has protected farmers from global inflation and supply disruptions.
Sustainable Agriculture Gains Momentum
India is also promoting sustainable nutrient management through increased adoption of organic and alternative fertilizers.
Sales of eco-friendly products such as Fortified Organic Manure (FOM), Liquid FOM (LFOM), and Phosphate Rich Organic Manure (PROM) increased sevenfold during FY 2025-26 compared to the previous financial year.
Other developments include:
- Ammonium Sulphate consumption increased by nearly 60,000 tonnes.
- Green manuring activities expanded to 1.84 lakh hectares with technical support from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs).
- Awareness programmes encouraged balanced nutrient application and sustainable farming practices.
Fertilizer Availability Outlook
Current fertilizer availability across major nutrients remains comfortable. Rising domestic production, strategic stock management, and diversified sourcing have strengthened India’s fertilizer supply chain.
With expanding manufacturing capacity, strong buffer stocks, and continued support for sustainable agriculture, the country is well-positioned to meet the fertilizer requirements of the agricultural sector while ensuring farmers have access to essential nutrients at affordable prices.
