In a decisive move to safeguard the interests of farmers, the Bihar agriculture department has initiated a rigorous two-day statewide inspection campaign targeting fertiliser retail outlets. The drive, launched on Thursday, aims to eliminate malpractices and ensure seamless availability of crucial agricultural inputs for the ongoing rabi cropping season.
Zero-Tolerance Against Stock Mismatches and Black Marketing
The core objective of this intensive effort is to detect and prevent any discrepancy between the fertiliser stocks recorded on point of sale (POS) machines and the actual physical stock available at retail and authorised establishments. Principal Secretary of the agriculture department, Pankaj Kumar, stated that the drive is specifically designed to curb instances of black marketing, smuggling, and the sale of fertilisers at inflated rates.
"The two-day drive is being conducted by the department’s officials and personnel to prevent any instance of black marketing, smuggling and sale or purchase at increased rates, and to take necessary follow-up action after identifying any wrongdoing," Kumar explained. He emphasised that regular raids are also being conducted as part of the department's ongoing vigilance.
Stringent Actions and Robust Monitoring Mechanisms
The state government has already taken stern action against errant establishments. Kumar revealed that till December 24, First Information Reports (FIRs) had been lodged against 31 fertiliser establishments for various irregularities. In an even more significant punitive measure, the licences of 83 fertiliser establishments have been cancelled due to violations committed by them.
To strengthen oversight, flying squads have been constituted at the headquarters level. These squads promptly conduct raids based on specific complaints received. Furthermore, directions have been issued to convene meetings of vigilance committees at the district and block levels in areas that have previously been uncovered.
Policy Directives for Fair Distribution
The department has also issued clear instructions to ensure fertiliser allotment at the block level is strictly based on the actual requirement and the area covered by rabi crops. Reiterating the government's firm stance, Kumar warned, "Action will be taken under the zero-tolerance policy in cases of mismatch between the listed stock and actual availability." He assured farmers that the state currently holds sufficient fertiliser stocks to meet the demand throughout the rabi season.
Minister's Assurance and Agricultural Achievements
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav addressed a seminar organised at the BAMETI auditorium to mark the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, observed as Sushasan Diwas. The seminar was themed 'Jai Jawan, Jai Kissan, Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan'.
In a strong message, Yadav asserted, "Anyone who harasses farmers will not be spared." He highlighted the significant progress Bihar has made in the production of staple crops like paddy, wheat, and maize, as well as fruits and vegetables. The minister also noted the state's growing reputation in the export of specialty products, stating, "Bihar has also carved a niche in the export of makhana and litchi."
This concerted drive by the Bihar government underscores its commitment to protecting farmers from exploitation during the critical rabi sowing period, ensuring that agricultural growth is not hampered by supply chain irregularities.
