Uttar Pradesh govt has unveiled a major initiative to make sugarcane cultivation more sustainable, profitable and environmentally friendly. During a joint virtual workshop organised by the Cane Development Department and IFFCO, officials stressed the need to reduce excessive dependence on chemical fertilisers and encourage the use of smart and nano-based agricultural products.
Authorities instructed all sugar mills to ensure that farmers receive only recommended and approved fertilisers and pesticides. The use and distribution of substandard or unapproved agrochemicals will not be allowed, as they can adversely affect crop productivity, soil health and farmers' incomes.
Experts from IFFCO highlighted the benefits of products such as Nano Urea Plus, Nano DAP, Sagarika, bio-fertilisers and water-soluble fertilisers. According to experts, balanced use of these inputs can improve soil fertility, enhance plant growth and increase nutrient-use efficiency while reducing cultivation costs and boosting productivity.
To assess the effectiveness of these technologies at the field level, five demonstration plots will be established in every sugar mill area of the state. Farmer meetings will be organised once the crop matures, allowing growers to observe the results and learn from practical experiences.
15,000 Sprayers to Be Distributed on 50% Subsidy:
To encourage the adoption of smart fertilisers, the state government will provide 5,000 power sprayers and 10,000 battery-operated sprayers to farmers through cane committees at a 50 percent subsidy. The initiative aims to improve access to modern farm equipment and make fertiliser and pesticide application more efficient.
Tree Plantation and Awareness Campaigns to Gain Momentum:
The workshop also linked agricultural development with environmental conservation. Cane committees, councils and regional offices have been asked to undertake plantation drives under the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign. In addition, awareness programmes, training sessions and educational materials on smart fertilisers, bio-fertilisers and bio-pesticides will be provided to farmers.
Uttar Pradesh government believes that combining modern technologies with balanced nutrient management and eco-friendly practices can significantly improve sugarcane productivity while ensuring long-term sustainability and better incomes for farmers.
FAQs:
1. What are smart fertilisers?
Smart fertilisers are advanced nutrient products designed to improve nutrient efficiency and reduce wastage in crops.
2. Which smart fertilisers are being promoted?
Nano Urea Plus, Nano DAP, Sagarika, bio-fertilisers, and water-soluble fertilisers are being promoted.
3. How many demonstration plots will be established?
Five demonstration plots will be set up in every sugar mill area of Uttar Pradesh.
4. What subsidy is available on sprayers?
Farmers will receive power and battery-operated sprayers at a 50% subsidy.
5. How will smart fertilisers benefit sugarcane farmers?
They can improve soil fertility, increase productivity, reduce cultivation costs, and support sustainable farming.
