Discuss the attempts made to reform the ‘fertiliser sector’ to keep a check on the rising subsidy bill, since 1991. Also, what are the areas that India needs to work on to address the goals of fertiliser policy?

Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies

5. Discuss the attempts made to reform the ‘fertiliser sector’ to keep a check on the rising subsidy bill, since 1991. Also, what are the areas that India needs to work on to address the goals of fertiliser policy? (250 Words)

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

Fertiliser subsidy has been a persistent issue and forms the core part of GS3 paper

Key Demand of the question:

Highlight the attempts made in fertiliser sector since 1991, and what areas does India have to work to achieve goals of fertiliser policy

Directive word:

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments

 Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

A brief on fertiliser subsidy in India

Body:

First. Mention the attempts made to reform the ‘fertiliser sector’ to keep a check on rising subsidy bill, since 1991

Then, the actions needed/areas to work on, to achieve the goals of fertiliser policy

Conclusion:

A relevant closing statement