Why in the News?

Ammonium Nitrate (AN) imports from Russia have sharply increased affecting domestic fertilizer companies in India.
- The import of Ammonium Nitrate is concerning due to increased dependence on foreign supply, price disparity impacting domestic industries, and potential risks to national energy and security.

What is Ammonium Nitrate?

Ammonium Nitrate (NH₄NO₃) is a nitrogen-rich, white, crystalline chemical compound.
It is soluble in water and commonly used in various industries.
Uses:
- It is widely used as a fertilizer in agriculture.
- It serves as a component for anaesthetic gases and cold packs.
- It is also a key ingredient in commercial explosives used for mining and construction.
Ammonium nitrate is classified as an oxidizing substance under Grade 5.1 by the United Nations.
India’s Regulations:
- AN is regulated under The Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012, and its manufacture or use requires a license.
- The Explosives Act, 1884 defines ammonium nitrate as any compound with more than 45% AN by weight.
- Storage Restrictions: Storing large quantities of AN in populated areas is illegal in India.
- For manufacturing, companies need an industrial license under the Industrial Development and Regulation Act, 1951.

Ammonium Nitrate is a primary component in explosive mixtures like ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil).
Though not explosive on its own, it becomes highly dangerous when mixed with detonators like RDX or TNT.
It has been used in Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by terrorist groups.
Accidents involving AN, like the Beirut port explosion in 2020, have raised serious concerns about its storage and handling.
Its widespread use in fertilizers leads to concerns about environmental impact, especially when mishandled.
Improper storage in populated areas can result in devastating accidents, which is why stringent regulations are in place to control its use, storage, and transport.

[2015] What can be the impact of excessive/inappropriate use of nitrogenous fertilizers in agriculture?

1. Proliferation of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms in soil can occur.

2. Increase in the acidity of soil can take place.

3. Leaching of nitrate to the ground-water can occur.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3