Shivraj Singh Chouhan pitches fertiliser subsidy revamp

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has proposed a significant reform in India’s fertiliser subsidy system, advocating for the direct transfer of the ₹1.71 lakh crore subsidy to farmers' bank accounts. This shift aims to streamline the process and ensure that financial assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries without the involvement of crop-nutrient manufacturers. Chouhan's suggestion comes amid ongoing discussions among policymakers to achieve consensus on implementing this reform. By directly supporting farmers, the government aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in subsidy distribution, potentially alleviating the financial burden on farmers who rely heavily on fertilisers for crop production. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to improving agricultural practices and supporting farmers' livelihoods in the country.