In a landmark move towards sustainable agriculture, the Indian government has launched the PM-Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth (PM-PRANAM). This innovative scheme is designed to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, promote balanced and alternative fertilizers, and restore soil health.
What is the PM-PRANAM Scheme?
Unlike traditional subsidy schemes (like PM Kisan) , PM-PRANAM does not involve any direct payment to farmers. Instead, it is a unique program that incentivizes states and Union Territories to curtail the use of chemical fertilizers. The scheme aims to save a portion of the massive fertilizer subsidy bill and use those savings to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Key Objectives and How It Works
The core vision of PM-PRANAM is to create a healthier agricultural ecosystem. Its primary objectives are:
Reduce Chemical Fertilizer Subsidy: Lower the financial burden on the exchequer caused by ever-increasing fertilizer subsidies.
Promote Alternative Nutrients: Encourage the use of organic fertilizers, nano fertilizers, bio-fertilizers, and other alternative nutrient sources.
Enhance Soil Health: Restore the natural fertility of the soil, which has degraded over years of excessive chemical use.
Incentivize States: The scheme works on a reward mechanism. 50% of the subsidy savings achieved by a state will be passed on to it as a grant. This grant can then be used by the state to further promote alternative fertilizers and create awareness among farmers.
Benefits for Farmers and the Environment
While the scheme incentivizes states, the ultimate beneficiaries are the farmers and the environment.
- For Farmers: In the long run, farmers will benefit from improved soil health, leading to better crop yields and reduced dependency on costly chemical inputs. This can significantly improve their profitability and sustainability.
- For the Environment: A reduction in chemical fertilizer usage will lead to less soil and water pollution, promoting biodiversity and creating a more balanced ecosystem.
The PM-PRANAM scheme represents a strategic shift from subsidizing consumption to promoting conscious and sustainable agricultural practices, paving the way for a greener future for Indian farming.