Bhubaneswar:With the Kharif season already underway, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department, today chaired a crucial review meeting on the fertilizer supply situation for Kharif crops across the state. The meeting, held at the Krushi Bhavan Conference Hall, brought together senior officials from key departments including Cooperation, Markfed, OAIC, and IFFCO, underscoring the government’s proactive approach to agricultural support.
During the session, Dr. Padhee emphasized the state’s comprehensive preparations to ensure the timely availability of various fertilizers, such as Urea, DAP, MOP, NPKS, and SSP. These essential inputs are being strategically positioned at MARKFED, PACS, LAMPCS, and retail dealer points well in advance of peak demand, which typically occurs between August and September. This proactive stocking strategy aims to prevent shortages and support the state’s ambitious Kharif crop plan of 58.50 lakh hectares for 2025.
A significant focus of Dr. Padhee’s address was on safeguarding farmers’ interests and ensuring fair practices in fertilizer distribution. He issued strict instructions against the “tagging” of other inputs like nano fertilizers, asserting that farmers must remain independent in choosing their required grade of fertilizers without any compulsion.
Furthermore, Dr. Padhee issued a stern warning against the sale, black marketing, and hoarding of spurious fertilizers. He highlighted that the Enforcement Squad is actively continuing its campaign to curb such illegal activities. Regular surprise inspections are being conducted at fertilizer retailer and wholesaler points across the state, with stringent action being taken against any illicit practices to protect the farming community.
The meeting also included discussions on logistical improvements, specifically addressing the establishment of new rake points to further streamline and ensure the timely supply of fertilizers across all regions of Odisha.