Conclusion

Biofertilizers increase the availability of plant nutrients and can help in maintenance of the soil fertility over a long period. As discussed earlier, some microorganisms have the beneficial role of biological nitrogen fixation to supply nitrogen to crops, solubilizing insoluble phosphates to plant-available (soluble) forms and synthesizing biomass for manuring of crops like rice. Biofertilizers are, therefore, economical, renewable and eco-friendly, but they cannot totally replace chemical fertilizers. Biofertilizer use is an important component of Integrated Nutrient Management and organic farming. These technologies are becoming vital in modern-day agricultural practices. The changing scenario of agricultural practices and environmental hazards associated with chemical fertilizers demand a more significant role of biofertilizers in coming years.