Integrated Nutrient Management

        Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) refers to maintenance of soil fertility and plant nutrient supply to an optimum level for sustaining the desired crop productivity through optimisation of the benefits from all possible sources of plant nutrients in an integrated manner.

        Integrated Plant Nutrient system is the management and conservation of natural resource base and the orientation of technological and institutional agencies in such a manner as to ensure the attainment and continuing satisfaction of human needs for the present and future generations - FAO.

Components

1. On-site resource generation : On-site generation of resources stipulates recycling of crop residues, animal manure etc.
2. Mobilisation of off-site nutrient resources : The mobilisation of off-site nutrient resources stipulates the addition of chemical nutrients from outside sources.
3. Resources integration : The resources responsible for on-site generation of nutrients and energy have to be appropriately integrated with chemical forms of nutrients and other management factors which enhances productivity.
4. Resources management : All the sources have to be appropriately managed at the optimum level of efficiency. In practical terms, the integrated nutrient supply system stipulates the management of the farming system as a whole, involving cattle, poultry, animals and plant resources and the use of chemicals for their conversion into food-grains and other forms of food.

        Schemes like the 'Balanced and integrated use of fertilisers' have been designed by Govt. of India with the aim of promoting the use of organic manures and bio-fertilisers. The scheme is also designed to encourage the processing and production of compost from urban waste and bio-fertiliser.

        For more information contact Fertiliser Officer, Directorate of Agriculture, Govt. of Meghalaya, Cleve Colony, Shillong - 793003.