In order to ensure the availability of fertilizers to farmers at subsidized, affordable, and reasonable prices, the union cabinet has approved proposal of the Department of Fertilizers for fixing the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for Kharif Season, 2026 (from April 01, 2026 to September 30, 2026) on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers. 

The tentative budgetary requirement for Kharif season 2026 would be around Rs 41,533.81 crore. This is around Rs 4,317 crore more than the budgetary requirement for Kharif 2025 season. The budget for Kharif 2025 was Rs 37,216.15 crore. The subsidy on P&K fertilizers including DAP and NPKS grades will be provided based on approved rates for Kharif 2026 (applicable from April 01, 2026 to September 30, 2026).

Government is making available 28 grades of P&K fertilizers including DAP to farmers at subsidized prices through fertilizer manufacturers/importers. The subsidy on P&K fertilizers is governed by NBS Scheme with effective from April 01, 2010. In accordance with its farmer friendly approach, the Government is committed to ensure the availability of P&K fertilizers to the farmers at affordable prices.