Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon has written to Union Minister J P Nadda, seeking uninterrupted availability of DAP and urea fertilizers for farmers during the ongoing paddy sowing season in the state.
In his letter, Dhillon said he had discussed the matter with the Union minister during a meeting held on June 6. He pointed out that paddy transplantation is now in full swing across Punjab and fertilizer demand is increasing rapidly. He requested the Centre to step up supplies to meet farmers' requirements.
Dhillon said the Central government has been regularly supplying fertilizers and is aware of the importance of the issue. However, he noted that demand reaches its highest level during June and July.
He warned that any shortage during this period could force farmers to wait for hours outside cooperative societies and fertilizer shops. Such delays may affect sowing schedules, crop productivity and food grain output. He added that fertilizer shortages also create opportunities for hoarding and black marketing. This often leaves farmers with no option but to buy fertilizers at inflated prices.
To avoid such a situation, Dhillon urged the Centre to immediately release an additional quota of DAP for Punjab. He also suggested maintaining a buffer stock of two to three lakh metric tonnes in the state before demand reaches its peak.
Further, he requested the ministry to prepare a monthly urea supply plan in coordination with the Punjab government so that distribution remains smooth and timely. Dhillon also called for a real-time monitoring system involving the Union ministry, fertilizer manufacturers such as IFFCO and NFL, and the Punjab government. He said such a mechanism would help prevent artificial shortages.
He stressed the need for strict action against those involved in diverting subsidised fertilizers meant for Punjab to other states. He also sought action against hoarders and those stocking fertilizers illegally.
In his letter, Dhillon asked the Centre to revisit the existing fertilizer allocation formula. He said Punjab's intensive farming practices and major contribution to the country's food grain production should be taken into account. He argued that the state deserves a larger fertilizer allocation based on its actual agricultural needs.
Expressing confidence in the Union government's commitment to farmers, Dhillon said he hopes quick steps will be taken to ensure that Punjab's farmers receive fertilizers without any disruption during the sowing season.
Also read: Cross-border narco module busted, six held with 30 kg heroin
Follow us
