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264 Economic Survey 2021-22

7.77 Research and development in agriculture & allied sectors can play a major role in realisation
of sustainable agriculture practice that efficiently meets the objectives of nutritional security and
improvement in farm income. Research shows that every rupee spent on agricultural research
and development, yields better returns compared to returns on money spent on subsidies or other
expenditures on inputs. The increase in agriculture R & D therefore may improve productivity
in the crop and allied sectors.

7.78 There is a need to explore options and promote use of alternative fertilizers such as Nano
Urea and organic fertiliser which protect the soil, are more productive and contribute to higher
nutrient use efficiency. Focus should be on use of new technology including drones and AI-
based decision support systems, reduction in use of chemical fertilizers and use of low-cost
organic inputs and supporting start-ups for innovations.