Steps to reduce over-reliance on chemical fertilisers

Abstract

Low-grade rock phosphate can be used directly in acidic soil in Eastern India in kharif season for rice and jute crops. Phosphate solubilising bacteria are suitable for P deficient soils, fungi for acidic degraded soil, while mycorrhiza is the right option for low moisture upland soils. Green manuring and green leaf manuring can easily substitute up to 50% of urea easily. Recycling crop
residues and cow dung as compost and vermicompost help to replace 17% of chemical fertiliser consumption. In addition, crop diversification and biological N fixation can replace about 25% of urea use. Use of ash, fly ash, other industrial wastes, and potassium (K) solubilisers are some other options for reducing K fertilisers use. Use of alternate fertiliser materials, soil testing, suitable
cultural practices, and artificial intelligence can also help in reducing the use of chemical fertilisers. This article provides a list of alternative solutions for synthetic chemical fertilisers to improve the food as well as soil quality.