Integrated Nutrient Management for Sustainable Sugarcane Productivity in India: Concept, Practices, and Policy Imperatives

Abstract

Sugarcane is a high-nutrient-demanding crop in India. Continuous cultivation and heavy fertilizer use have led to soil fertility depletion and environmental degradation. Nutrient use efficiency in sugarcane remains low under conventional practices. Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) is a holistic approach to address these challenges. It combines organic manures, chemical fertilizers, biofertilizers, green manures, and nano-nutrients. INM aims to improve nutrient use efficiency, sustain yields, and restore soil health. This paper reviews the scientific and practical aspects of INM in Indian sugarcane production systems. It examines existing nutrient management practices and recent advances in nano-fertilizers and precision inputs. Region-specific INM modules for plant and ratoon crops are discussed. Field demonstrations show yield improvements of about 10–20% under INM. Soil organic carbon and microbial activity also increase significantly. Institutions such as ICAR, State Agricultural Universities, and sugar mills promote INM through research and extension. Government initiatives like the Soil Health Card scheme support its adoption. However, adoption remains limited due to weak input supply chains and knowledge gaps among farmers. Fertilizer subsidy policies also favor chemical fertilizers. New technologies offer future opportunities. These include AI-based nutrient decision tools, remote sensing, and drone-assisted fertilizer application. The paper suggests a roadmap for scaling INM. It emphasizes zonal nutrient protocols, policy reforms, stronger input value chains, and better convergence among research, extension, and policy stakeholders. INM is essential for climate-resilient and resource-efficient sugarcane cultivation in India.