Bolstering Rabi Food Security: Strategic Fertiliser Stockpiling and Supply Chain Resilience

However, the challenge remains in the efficient last-mile delivery and the judicious use of these inputs. While high inventory levels provide a safety net, they also highlight the fiscal burden of the fertiliser subsidy regime. For policymakers, the focus must now shift toward promoting balanced fertiliser application—specifically the reduction of urea dependency in favor of Potash and Phosphate-based nutrients—to improve soil health and long-term agricultural sustainability. Furthermore, the integration of e-technology in monitoring stock levels at the district level remains essential to prevent hoarding and ensure that the benefits of this increased supply reach small and marginal farmers effectively. UPSC Relevance: This development is highly relevant for GS Paper III under the themes of agricultural inputs, food security, and farm subsidies. Aspirants can cite this as a case study on 'supply chain resilience' and 'government intervention in agricultural markets' when discussing the challenges of ensuring input availability for major crops. It also provides a practical context for evaluating the efficacy of the current fertiliser subsidy framework in India.