With good monsoon rains this year ensuring adequate water supply in reservoirs, dams, and farm ponds in the area, the Agriculture Department anticipates an increase in the acreage for Rabi crops. Dr. Pradeep Kumar, Joint Director of Agriculture, Dausa, stated that farmers are extensively using DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) as a phosphatic fertilizer during sowing. However, farmers often face challenges in accessing DAP, and the soil doesn’t always receive a balanced supply of nutrients.
Ashok Kumar Meena, Assistant Agricultural Officer of Dausa, inspected the fertilizer and seed sale centers and warehouses in Mahwa. He directed sellers and farmers to provide high-quality agricultural inputs at reasonable prices. Meena also advised farmers to use Single Super Phosphate (SSP) and Urea fertilizers instead of DAP.
During crop sowing, farmers are advised to replace one bag of DAP with three bags of SSP and one bag of Urea. In addition to phosphorus, SSP contains essential nutrients such as sulfur, zinc sulfate, and boron. The cost of nutrients provided by three bags of SSP and one bag of Urea is significantly lower than those provided by one bag of DAP.
To improve soil fertility, farmers should maximize the use of organic fertilizers, including manure, vermicompost, oil cakes, foam, alfam, and organic manure. New-age liquid fertilizers like nano-urea and nano-DAP should be used to reduce fertilizer costs and enhance soil fertility and crop yields. Farmers are also encouraged to use fertilizers based on the soil health card created after testing their soil.
Benefits of Single Super Phosphate (SSP): SSP is an economical fertilizer containing around 16% phosphorus and 11% sulfur. According to agricultural experts, sulfur is highly beneficial for leguminous and oilseed crops compared to other fertilizers. Just as nitrogen is essential for crops, phosphorus is equally important. It promotes plant growth, leading to a higher yield of flowers and fruits.
.jpg "Government new initiative to promote regenerative farming in India")
