The Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi, has approved the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for the Kharif season 2026, covering the period from April 1 to September 30. The decision applies to Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, including DAP and NPKS grades, ensuring their availability to farmers at subsidized and affordable prices.
The government has estimated a budgetary requirement of approximately Rs. 41,533.81 crore for the Kharif 2026 season, which is about Rs. 4,317 crore higher than the allocation for Kharif 2025. The increase reflects adjustments based on global price trends of key inputs such as urea, DAP, MOP, and sulphur.
Under the NBS scheme, implemented since April 2010, subsidies are provided to fertilizer manufacturers and importers based on approved nutrient rates. This ensures consistent supply and price stability for farmers across the country.
The move is aimed at safeguarding agricultural productivity by making essential fertilizers accessible, while also supporting farmers amid fluctuating international market conditions and rising input costs during the upcoming cropping season.
