UPSC Prelims Practice Questions — Parliamentary panel warns of fertilizer shortage

Q1. In the context of fertilizer subsidies in India, what does the 'Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS)' policy refer to?

  • A. A scheme in which a fixed per-kilogram subsidy is provided on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers based on their nutrient content, with Maximum Retail Price determined by manufacturers.
  • B. A direct cash transfer to farmers calculated on the basis of soil-health-card recommended nutrient doses.
  • C. A scheme under which the Centre reimburses State Governments the differential between international and domestic prices of urea.
  • D. A subsidy provided to fertilizer manufacturers solely on the basis of the freight cost of moving fertilizers between states.

Q2. With reference to the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates approved by the Union Cabinet for Kharif 2026 as compared to Kharif 2025, consider the following statements: 1. The tentative budgetary requirement for Kharif 2026 is approximately Rs 4,317 crore higher than that for Kharif 2025. 2. Unlike in Kharif 2025, urea has been brought within the ambit of the NBS scheme for Kharif 2026. 3. The NBS rates for Kharif 2026 cover 28 grades of Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. The tentative budgetary requirement for Kharif 2026 is approximately Rs 4,317 crore higher than that for Kharif 2025.
  2. Unlike in Kharif 2025, urea has been brought within the ambit of the NBS scheme for Kharif 2026.
  3. The NBS rates for Kharif 2026 cover 28 grades of Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers.
  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 1 and 3 only
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Q3. Which of the following is the nodal Central Government department that implements the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) and Urea Subsidy schemes for fertilizers in India?

  • A. Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare
  • B. Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
  • C. Department of Food and Public Distribution, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
  • D. Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

Q4. The Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, which governs the price, quality and distribution of fertilizers in India, has been issued under which one of the following Acts?

  • A. Essential Commodities Act, 1955
  • B. Insecticides Act, 1968
  • C. Industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951
  • D. Consumer Protection Act, 1986