Political Economy of Fertiliser Use in Agriculture: A Study of Two Districts of West Bengal.

This article examines the overuse of chemical fertilisers among paddy farmers in two agriculturally advanced districts of West Bengal, India, within the context of a pan-India government programme promoting soil testing and optimal fertiliser recommendations. Based on a primary survey of 180 households, the study finds widespread excessive fertiliser use by both farmers who participated in the government soil testing programme (Treatment Farmers) and those who did not (Control Farmers), with Treatment Farmers applying even higher amounts despite no corresponding increase in productivity. The research highlights limited effectiveness of the government programme, partly due to farmers' lack of awareness and comprehension of soil test reports, and identifies a significant distortionary influence of private fertiliser dealers who encourage overuse through marketing strategies and credit provision. These findings underscore complex agrarian political economy dynamics where private sector interests and inadequate public infrastructure undermine sustainable fertiliser use and soil health management.