Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme

Why in News?

• Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates has been confirmed for various nutrients i.e. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P),Potash (K) and Sulphur (S) for Rabi Season 2022-23 and for Kharif Season, 2023 for Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers.

Nutrient Based Subsidy Scheme:

• The Subsidy on P&K fertilizers is governed by NBS Scheme under the Department of Fertilizers since 2010.
• Subsidy is fixed by an inter-ministerial committee taking into account the benchmark international prices of finished fertilisers as well as raw materials.
• The subsidy is given to registered to P & K fertiliser manufacturers/importers which provides these fertilisers at subsidised rates to farmers.
• Benefits:
  • It helps farmers in ensuring availability of essential nutrients at subsidized prices.
  • It rationalizes the subsidy on P&K fertilizers, ensuring effective and efficient utilization of government resources.

Q1) What are rabi crops also called?

Rabi crops or rabi harvest, also known as winter crops, are agricultural crops that are sown in winter and harvested in the spring in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Source: Cabinet Approves revision in Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for RABI Season

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