Intensity of synthetic and organic fertilizers use among Indian paddy growers: Determinants and implications for productivity and sustainability

Abstract Introduction Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is lower for South Asia than for most other regions of the world, and average crop NUE is on the decline in India. This inefficient use of nitrogen fertilizers has implications for agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. Materials and Methods Using data from 14,669 farmers in India, this paper examined the determinants of synthetic fertilizer and manure adoption and intensity of use for rice ( Oryza sativa L.) production. The latter was assessed through fertilizer expenditure rather than the traditional weight‐based method. A double hurdle model was estimated. Results The study showed that farmers' decisions to adopt fertilizer or manure and the decision on use intensity were independent. Both synthetic fertilizers and manure adoption were influenced by common drivers such as access to financial resources through instruments like the Kisan Credit Card and loans, expenditure on irrigation and labour, and geographical location. In terms of barriers, the likelihood of adoption of both synthetic fertilizer and manure was lower among landowners and paddy area cultivated. The intensity of fertilizer and manure use was higher for older farmers and was positively influenced by expenditure on labour but negatively influenced by ownership of livestock. Also, synthetic fertilizers and manure use intensity were determined by regional temperature and geographical zones. Conclusion The results of this study are useful for targeted interventions to promote sustainable fertilizer use with a focus on following recommendations in zones or among demographic groups that are currently more likely to have a high intensity of use. Similarly, the findings inform support towards increased adoption and sustainable use where fertilizer is underutilised.