In a major drive against malpractices in the sale of chemical fertilizers, the Bihar government has taken stringent action, cancelling and suspending hundreds of retail licences during the ongoing Rabi season. State Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav announced the crackdown, highlighting a zero-tolerance policy towards irregularities that affect farmers.
Widespread Action Against Retail Violations
Minister Yadav, speaking from Krishi Bhavan in Mithapur, Patna, on Tuesday, revealed that 100 fertilizer licences have been cancelled and 132 suspended across the state for the 2025-26 Rabi season. This decisive move aims to prevent sale irregularities at the retail level. The department's flying squads, based at the headquarters, have been actively monitoring outlets and conducting swift raids based on complaints.
So far, 23 reports of irregularity were received by these squads, leading to the cancellation of two licences and suspension of 17 others. Furthermore, First Information Reports (FIRs) have been lodged in 37 distinct cases related to fertilizer malpractices this season. The minister emphasised that complaints from affected individuals in districts like Patna, Sheikhpura, and Supaul have also led to strict action against retail outlets there.
Border Smuggling Checked with SSB Coordination
A significant part of the crackdown focused on districts sharing a border with Nepal, where fertilizer smuggling has been a concern. Minister Yadav credited the vigilant Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) jawans for their cooperation in enabling successful raids. In East Champaran's border blocks alone, this coordinated effort resulted in four FIRs, 11 cancelled licences, and two suspended licences.
The minister stated that actions against smuggling networks in these border districts were carried out in close coordination with the SSB, which is deployed to secure the frontier. This multi-agency approach has been crucial in curbing the illegal cross-border movement of fertilizers.
Availability Assured, Black Marketing Targeted
While cracking down on illegal activities, Minister Yadav assured farmers that there is adequate availability of essential chemical fertilizers in Bihar. He listed key fertilizers like urea, DAP, NPK, MOP, and SSP as being sufficiently stocked for the agricultural season.
The ongoing raids specifically target outlets involved in black marketing, hoarding, and selling fertilizers at inflated prices. The department's message is clear: while supplies are ample, exploitation of farmers will not be tolerated. The flying squads remain empowered to conduct surprise checks and quick raids on any establishment reported for violations, ensuring a continuous monitoring mechanism.
