Principles and Objectives of Integrated Nutrient Management
Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) refers to the practice of using optimum combination of different sources of nutrient supply (chemical fertilizer, organic manure, crop residues and Biofertilizers for efficient crop production. It is a flexible approach to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers, and maximize their use efficiency, so as to provide for excellent soil health and enhanced farmer’s profits. Following five principles of INM have been suggested for sustaining cropping system : (i) in the soil, replenishment of chemicals removed by the cop; (ii) Maintenance of humus level in the soil, i.e. physical texture of  the soil; (iii) avoidance of weeds, pests and diseases; (iv) Control of soil acidity and toxicity and (v) control of soil erosion. The role of soil biota in these five guiding principles of INM can not be undermined, since soil microbes contribute in a big way to the soil organic matter dynamics, nutrient use and in situ control pests and diseases.