Means of producing phosphate-rich organic manure (PROM) as a substitute for DAP to save huge subsidy given to the latter, the difficulties experienced in its production and developing business models came in for discussion at a seminar organised by the Department of Chemical Engineering of Andhra University in association with the Indian Institute of Mineral Engineers (IIME), Visakhapatnam chapter, on Monday.
Speakers said, at the seminar held under TEQIP II, that PROM was proven as a major nutrient with its inclusion on the Fertilizer Control Order. However, its production on a mass scale, logistics relating to supply of rock phosphate and organic waste and popularising it are yet to take a concrete shape.
Business model
T.C. Rao, former director of Regional Research Laboratory, Bhopal, said a business model had to be developed with the efficacy of PROM proven and leveraging the thrust given by the government for Swacch Bharat.
The models should be in three capsules -- one for a district-wise plan using rock phosphate and quality municipal solid waste available, another for IAS officers, MPs and the other a 10-page article for agriculture universities. Stating that co-operative farming would be taken up in a big way, he saw a major role for companies like ITC and Reliance. The commercial production should be of ISI standard specifying soil character.
K.S. Money, former managing director of Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Limited, said much depended on the availability of rock phosphate of right size and grade and that of organic waste in sufficient quantities and local manufacturing would be easier. He also recalled how convincing officials in the Fertilizer Ministry on PROM took considerable time.
Mr. Money had sanctioned Rs.40 lakh for validation of technology during his tenure. It was validated in 2004.
Principal of AU Engineering College Ch V Ramachandra Murthy felt if PROM replaced DPA lot of money could be saved.
S. Kundu of Excel Industries said the nutrient was quite good for apples in Himachal Pradesh and tea gardens. He recalled the problems in transporting rock phosphate to all the corners of the country barring the south.
Collaborator of Xanthate Technologies D M R Sekhar said the issue was to take advantage of PROM technology and save the subsidy of Rs.35,000 crore.
