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Discovery of potash reserves in Punjab could reduce dependence on imports, boost the domestic fertilizer industry, and drive regional economic growth.

Discovery of Potash Reserves in Punjab

Potash reserves have been discovered in three mining blocks in Punjab's Fazilka and Sri Muktsar Sahib districts. These blocks include Kabarwala (Muktsar Sahib), Sherewala and Ramsara (Fazilka), and Shergarh and Dalmir Khera (Fazilka).

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) conducted extensive surveys from 2017 to 2021, confirming the presence of potash at a depth of approximately 450 meters.

Punjab is now the second state in India, after Rajasthan, to have significant potash deposits.

What is Potash?

Potash refers to a group of potassium-rich minerals, primarily used in fertilizers. It is one of the three essential nutrients for plant growth, alongside nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), collectively known as N-P-K.

Types of Potash Fertilizers:

• Muriate of Potash (MOP): Contains chloride and is commonly used for carbohydrate-rich crops like wheat.
• Sulphate of Potash (SOP): Chloride-free and preferred for high-value crops like fruits and vegetables.

Potash is also used in water purification, glass manufacturing, soaps, detergents, and explosives.

Economic and Agricultural Significance

India currently imports 5 million tonnes of potash annually, mainly for fertilizers and industrial applications. This discovery could significantly reduce India's dependence on imports, saving foreign exchange and boosting domestic production.

The mining and processing of potash are expected to create employment opportunities and contribute to the economic development of Punjab. Processing factories may be established near the mining sites that could boost local economies.

Environmental Considerations

The Punjab government has assured that no land acquisition will be required for mining. 

Advanced drilling systems will be used to extract potash from depths of 450 meters, ensuring minimal impact on land ownership and agricultural activities.

Before commencing operations, the government is conducting thorough environmental and social impact assessments (ESIAs) to address concerns related to land use, water resources, and local communities.

Farmers in the region had initially expressed concerns about potential land acquisition. However, the government has clarified that mining will not disrupt agricultural land or displace farmers.

Broader Implications for India

India spends billions of dollars annually on potash imports. The discovery of domestic reserves could reduce this expenditure, contributing to economic self-reliance.

Indigenous potash reserves will support the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) scheme, which provides subsidies to farmers based on the nutrient content of fertilizers.

Potash has been classified as a critical mineral under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2023.

Way Forward

The government must ensure that mining operations are conducted efficiently and sustainably.

Continuous conversation between government and local communities is crucial to address any potential concerns and ensure smooth project implementation.

The government must enforce strict environmental regulations to minimize the ecological impact of mining activities.

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Source: 

INDIAN EXPRESS