PM PRANAM Scheme
Reducing Fertilizer Dependence
PM PRANAM (PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth) was announced in Union Budget 2023-24. It does not have a separate budget but works within the existing fertilizer subsidy budget: states that save fertilizer subsidies by reducing chemical fertilizer use receive 50% of the saved subsidy amount as a grant — which they can use for infrastructure, training, or asset creation related to alternate fertilizer promotion. The scheme incentivizes four transition pathways: balanced chemical fertilizer use; alternate fertilizers (Fermented Organic Manure/FOM, Phosphate Rich Organic Manure/PROM, Urea Gold with nano coating); natural farming; and natural resources conservation technologies.
- PM PRANAM: No dedicated budget; works through existing fertilizer subsidy; grant = 50% of subsidy saved by states
- India's fertilizer subsidy bill: Approximately ₹1.75–2 lakh crore per year (one of the largest subsidy items in the Union Budget)
- India is heavily import-dependent on fertilizers, especially urea (imports from Russia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Egypt) and di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) — a strategic vulnerability
- Nano Urea: Developed by IFFCO (Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative), approved by the Fertiliser Control Order; 500 ml liquid nano urea bottle claimed equivalent to one bag of conventional urea — reduces transport and storage costs
- Urea Gold: Coated with sulfur and urease inhibitors; improves nitrogen use efficiency; reduces volatilization losses
- The scheme is administered by the Department of Fertilizers (under Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers)
● Tracked since March 02, 2026 · last seen April 02, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes