The Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta-Sidhupur) has announced a road blockade on the Bassi Pathana-Morinda road on June 22 to protest the government's failure to ensure the timely supply of essential fertilisers, especially urea, during the ongoing paddy cultivation season. The decision was taken during a meeting held in Bassi Pathana town on Saturday, where farmers expressed their frustration over the non-availability of urea.
Farmers demand immediate action on urea supply
Addressing the gathering, the union's district secretary Gurjit Singh said farmers are facing serious difficulties due to the unavailability of urea. He claimed that several cooperative societies have not received even a single bag of urea, despite paddy requiring the fertiliser nearly 20 days after transplantation. Singh alleged that some private dealers and cooperative societies are forcing farmers to purchase unnecessary products along with urea, and those who refuse are being denied the fertiliser, leading to exploitation.
Delegation met officials, but no solution
Gurjit Singh said a delegation of the union had already met officials to raise the issue. However, officials told them that fresh stocks of urea had not arrived. Singh emphasised that farmers cannot wait any longer as the crop urgently needs the fertiliser at this critical stage. The road blockade is intended to draw attention to the crisis and pressure the government to act.
Impact on paddy cultivation
The ongoing paddy season is heavily dependent on urea, which is essential for crop growth. With cooperative societies and dealers reportedly lacking supplies, farmers are struggling to meet the fertiliser requirements, threatening their yields and livelihoods. The protest highlights the broader issue of fertiliser distribution inefficiencies in the region.
