The Gujarat government is taking serious steps to tackle the black market in fertilisers. This follows complaints from farmers about the availability and pricing of essential fertilisers. Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel has urged farmers to purchase only the required amount of fertiliser. He reassured them that the government is working hard to ensure a steady supply of urea, DAP, and NPK fertilisers.
This year, the state experienced good rainfall, leading to early completion of the Kharif crop sowing. Approximately 61% of the sowing was done ahead of schedule. To support farmers, the central government is providing significant subsidies on fertilisers, ensuring that they are available at reasonable prices.
To implement a supply plan, the state government is distributing fertilisers across various districts. This distribution is closely monitored by senior officials, including Agriculture Minister Patel. The aim is to make fertilisers easily accessible to farmers based on their needs.
Minister Patel stated that there should be no hoarding or black marketing of fertilisers in the state. He confirmed that adequate supplies are being ensured for every district and taluka, helping to prevent any unfair price hikes. In response to farmers’ concerns, control rooms have been set up at the state, district, and taluka levels. This initiative will help farmers report any issues regarding fertiliser supply.
Additionally, the government has appointed a special officer at the level of the additional collector to oversee the distribution process. The central government is also supplying fertiliser in stages, following the state’s requests. The Agriculture Minister has encouraged farmers to buy only what they need and avoid unnecessary hoarding.
It is noteworthy that to maximise production of crops like peanuts, farmers are advised to limit the use of nitrogen-based fertilisers such as urea. For crops like millet, the use of ammonium sulfate is recommended as a nitrogen source. This approach will help improve the quality and yield of the produce while managing the costs associated with fertiliser use.
The government’s actions reflect a commitment to support the agricultural sector, ensuring that farmers can access the necessary inputs for successful farming. The control rooms should help in addressing any grievances quickly, promoting transparency and fairness in the fertiliser distribution system.
In conclusion, the steps taken by the Gujarat government are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the fertiliser market. By ensuring proper supply and preventing black marketing, the government aims to create a supportive environment for farmers, ultimately leading to better agricultural outcomes and food security in the state.