Following Fertilizers imported in India for a period of two years

## Policy Analysis Report: NPK 10:26:26 Complex Fertilizer Import Specifications **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification from the Central Government of India regarding the specifications for imported NPK 10:26:26 complex fertilizer. This is a *new* policy establishing the standards that imported NPK 10:26:26 fertilizer must meet to be allowed into India. The core purpose is to regulate the quality and composition of imported fertilizer, ensuring it meets specific parameters for nutrient content, moisture, and particle size. Key findings include specific thresholds for total nitrogen, available phosphorous, water-soluble potassium, and acceptable moisture levels. The policy is valid for two years from the date of publication. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Government of India's notification (S.O. 4496(E)) regarding the specifications for imported NPK 10:26:26 complex fertilizer. This analysis is based solely on the text provided in the notification. **3. Policy Overview:** This is a *new* policy. * **Core Objective(s):** The core objective is to define and enforce the minimum quality standards for NPK 10:26:26 complex fertilizer imported into India. This includes setting specific limits for moisture content, nitrogen (ammonical and nitrate), available and water-soluble phosphorus, water-soluble potassium, and particle size. The policy aims to regulate the composition of imported fertilizer to ensure quality. **4. Background and Rationale:** As a new policy, this notification likely addresses a need to standardize the quality of imported NPK 10:26:26 complex fertilizer. This standardization likely addresses concerns related to variability in nutrient content, excessive moisture, or unsuitable particle size, all of which could impact the fertilizer's effectiveness and application. It aims to ensure that imported fertilizers meet a minimum standard of quality before entering the Indian market, protecting farmers and promoting efficient agricultural practices. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** Since this is a new policy, the key provisions are as follows: * The policy establishes mandatory specifications for imported NPK 10:26:26 complex fertilizer. * These specifications include the following parameter limits: * Moisture: Maximum 1.5% by weight. * Total Ammoniacal Nitrogen: Minimum 10.0% by weight. * Nitrate Nitrogen: Minimum 7.0% by weight. * Available Phosphorus (as P2O5): Minimum 26.0% by weight. * Water Soluble Phosphorus (as P2O5): Minimum 22.5% by weight. * Water Soluble Potassium (as K2O): Minimum 26.0% by weight. * Particle Size: Minimum 90% of the material shall be retained between a 4.0 mm IS sieve and a 1 mm IS sieve. * The policy is effective for a period of two years from September 23, 2022 (date of publication). **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** Based on the text, the primary target audience includes: * **Fertilizer Importers:** Companies or individuals importing NPK 10:26:26 complex fertilizer into India. They must ensure their products meet the specified standards. * **Farmers:** As end-users of the fertilizer, they are indirectly affected as the policy aims to ensure quality and effectiveness of imported fertilizer. Other stakeholders include: * **Fertilizer Manufacturers (International):** Companies producing NPK 10:26:26 complex fertilizer for export to India. * **Government Agencies:** Specifically, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, which is responsible for implementing and enforcing the policy. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is the primary responsible agency. The Fertiliser Inorganic, Organic or Mixed Control Order, 1985 is referenced, suggesting this order provides the broader framework for fertilizer regulation. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The policy is effective for two years from the date of publication (September 23, 2022). No specific procedures for enforcement are detailed in the provided text, but it is likely inspections and sampling will be conducted to verify compliance with the specifications. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The intended outcomes of this policy are likely to include: * **Improved Quality Control:** Ensuring that imported NPK 10:26:26 fertilizer meets minimum quality standards for nutrient content and physical properties. * **Protection of Farmers' Interests:** Providing farmers with access to fertilizer that is effective and reliable. * **Fair Trade Practices:** Creating a level playing field for domestic and international fertilizer manufacturers by enforcing consistent quality standards. * **Increased Agricultural Productivity:** By ensuring farmers have access to quality fertilizer, the policy aims to contribute to increased agricultural productivity. **9. Conclusion:** The notification S.O. 4496(E) introduces new specifications for imported NPK 10:26:26 complex fertilizer in India. It establishes mandatory limits for key parameters like nutrient content, moisture, and particle size, effective for two years. This policy is significant as it aims to regulate the quality of imported fertilizer, protect farmers' interests, and promote efficient agricultural practices. By standardizing the quality of imported NPK 10:26:26 fertilizer, the policy is intended to improve agricultural productivity and support the agricultural sector.

Key Entities Referenced