The Indian government has announced its ongoing efforts to diversify fertiliser import sources to mitigate potential disruptions in supply. This information was disclosed through a Right to Information (RTI) response. The focus is on exploring alternative global supply routes and enhancing domestic supply chains to secure uninterrupted availability of fertilisers, amid increasing uncertainties in global markets.

In response to queries regarding the steps taken to lower dependency on internationally vulnerable routes, the government indicated that it has launched various initiatives to ensure a stable supply chain. “A range of measures have been undertaken through the best available alternative import routes for ensuring supply sources for raw materials, intermediates and finished fertilisers,” the RTI response articulated, highlighting the government’s commitment to safeguarding the agricultural sector.

Moreover, the government aims to avoid excessive reliance on a limited number of countries or supply corridors that may face disruptions due to geopolitical issues or market instabilities. By broadening its import strategy, India seeks to enhance its resilience against external shocks, ensuring that farmers can access the necessary fertilisers during key agricultural periods.

Strengthening Domestic Fertiliser Ecosystem

In conjunction with diversifying import routes, the Centre is concentrating on bolstering the domestic fertiliser ecosystem. This includes reinforcing the supply chains crucial for the timely distribution and availability of fertilisers across the nation, particularly during vital sowing seasons. Additionally, the initiative aims to secure essential raw materials and intermediates needed for both import and domestic production.

The measures undertaken are geared towards increasing the robustness of India’s fertiliser network against potential external adversities, thereby supporting the country’s agricultural productivity. The government aims to establish a reliable delivery framework to ensure that farmers have the fertiliser supplies necessary to meet agricultural demands, especially during critical growing periods.

The RTI reply does not mention specific countries or alternative routes being investigated. However, it does suggest that a comprehensive strategy is being adopted, reducing India’s vulnerabilities closely associated with global market changes. The response also reflects a determination to enhance India’s long-term fertiliser security, crucial for sustaining its agricultural output.

Implications of Global Fertiliser Supply Disruptions

This disclosure of the government’s strategic approach arrives as global uncertainties regarding commodity supplies continue. Various nations are currently reassessing their supply-chain resilience, particularly amidst ongoing tensions that could impact logistics. Earlier reports indicated that India’s fertiliser subsidy bill might rise by nearly 20 per cent in the current financial year, influenced by soaring prices of key nutrients due to supply disruptions linked to the geopolitical conflict in the Strait of Hormuz.

India stands as the second-largest consumer of fertilisers worldwide and is the largest importer of di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) and urea. Approximately 60 per cent of the country’s DAP needs are fulfilled through imports, indicating a significant reliance on international sources. Furthermore, India also depends on imported essential raw materials like rock phosphate, phosphoric acid, and potash to sustain its domestic fertiliser production.

According to recent government data, as of April 2026, the country holds approximately 19.02 million tonnes of fertiliser stock, juxtaposed with an estimated requirement of 39.05 million tonnes for the kharif season. These statistics underscore the urgency of bolstering both import strategies and domestic production capabilities as part of the government’s comprehensive plan to secure fertiliser availability for its agricultural sector.

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