In a decisive move to safeguard farmers' interests, the Bihar government has rolled out a stringent weekly inspection regime targeting fertiliser traders across the state. The state agriculture department has instituted a weekly 'zero office day' starting from Saturday, directing all officials from the district to the block level to leave their desks and conduct on-ground checks of fertiliser trading establishments.
On-Spot Verification and Immediate Action
Announcing the initiative, State Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav stated that the designated day will see officials performing thorough physical verification of fertiliser stock and scrutinising sales and distribution records directly at the trade points. "On the zero office day, all officials will conduct a thorough inspection of fertiliser trading establishments. They will verify stock physically and inquire into sales and distribution on the spot. It will be a weekly practice," Yadav emphasised.
The minister warned of strict consequences for those exploiting farmers, asserting that "anyone attempting to exploit farmers will not escape the law of the land." To bolster these efforts, flying squads have been activated at the state headquarters. These teams will rush to districts to conduct surprise spot inspections, particularly in response to specific complaints about fertiliser scarcity or malpractices.
Crackdown During Crucial Rabi Season
This proactive measure comes at a critical time during the ongoing Rabi cropping season. It follows a rigorous two-day, state-level drive against traders and even farmers involved in hoarding, black marketing, or selling fertilisers at inflated prices. A recent enforcement action in Bankatwa block, East Champaran, led to the significant seizure of approximately 2,000 bags and sacks of fertiliser.
Minister Yadav sought to reassure the farming community, clarifying that there is no actual shortage of supply. "The state has adequate supply of all chemical fertilisers in line with the demand of the current Rabi season. There is no shortage," he said. The government's objective is to maintain smooth supply and availability, preventing farmers from having to queue up or fall prey to rumours of scarcity designed to justify black marketing.
Zero Tolerance Policy Against Wrongdoers
The overarching message from the government is one of zero tolerance. The weekly 'zero office day' is designed to be a sustained deterrent, not a one-off campaign. "The government maintains zero tolerance in such matters, and action will be taken against wrongdoers," Yadav affirmed. By ensuring officials are physically present in the field every week, the administration aims to create a persistent check on irregularities, protect the supply chain, and ultimately support Bihar's farmers in securing essential inputs for a successful Rabi harvest.
