Deputy commissioner Snehal has assured farmers that Dharwad district possesses adequate stocks of seeds and fertilisers for the upcoming kharif sowing season, urging them not to panic over rumours of shortages. Chairing a meeting of agriculture department officials, fertiliser dealers and farmer representatives, she stated that agricultural activities have already commenced in the district, with sowing operations expected to begin in the first week of June coinciding with the onset of the monsoon.
Measures to Ensure Timely Supply
DC Snehal directed officials to guarantee the timely supply of seeds and fertilisers, and ordered the formation of special inspection squads to check overpricing, illegal hoarding and the creation of artificial scarcity. She also instructed officials to prevent the sale of fake or unauthorised seeds and fertilisers through regular inspections of sales centres. Any complaints from the public regarding seeds or fertilisers should be verified immediately and action initiated without delay, she emphasised.
Impact of Global Conflict on Supply
Snehal noted that fertiliser supply at the national and state levels has been affected due to the ongoing West Asia conflict. However, Dharwad district has already secured adequate stocks required for the monsoon sowing season and distributed them to dealers. She advised farmers to obtain seeds from nearby Raitha Samparka Kendras and purchase fertilisers, including urea, only from authorised outlets as per government norms.
Strict Action Against Malpractices
The deputy commissioner warned that strict action will be taken against dealers forcing farmers to buy linked products, charging excess prices, failing to issue receipts or not displaying stock and price details outside shops. Licences of erring dealers will be suspended immediately if complaints are received, she cautioned.
Current Stock Position
The district’s estimated urea requirement for the June-September season is 27,642 metric tonnes. At present, Dharwad district has 6,612 metric tonnes of urea in stock after the sale of 3,106 metric tonnes since April. Apart from this, the district has stocks of 4,526 metric tonnes of DAP, 2,562 metric tonnes of potash, 11,299 metric tonnes of complex fertilisers and 453 metric tonnes of SSP fertilisers. Overall, the district holds 24,793 metric tonnes of various fertilisers in stock, ensuring a comfortable buffer for the upcoming sowing season.
