Hyderabad: Agriculture minister Tummala Nageswara Rao has strongly criticised the central government for its handling of urea supply, alleging a lack of proper planning in ensuring timely fertiliser availability ahead of the kharif season. Addressing farmers during the Rythu Nestham programme on Tuesday, the minister highlighted that the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region has disrupted global urea shipments to India, adversely affecting supplies to several states, including Telangana.
Centre Accused of Ignoring State Requests
Rao stated that despite repeated requests made by the state since November last year for kharif requirements, the Centre failed to provide clarity or assurance on adequate urea allocation. He emphasised that the production and distribution of urea across the country falls entirely under the jurisdiction of the central government. In this context, he remarked that criticism by BJP leaders against the Telangana government over fertiliser shortages was unfair and misplaced.
Central Control Over Key Resources
The minister pointed out that urea supply, diesel availability, and crop procurement are largely controlled by the Centre. He noted that Telangana has been proactively making crop purchases to support farmers, unlike several other states where maize, jowar, and sunflower are reportedly not being procured. After the state procures crops from farmers, agencies such as NAFED and FCI are expected to lift the stocks, he explained.
Rao's remarks come amid growing concerns over fertiliser availability as the kharif season approaches, with farmers relying on timely supplies to ensure optimal crop yields. The minister urged the Centre to take immediate corrective measures to address the supply chain disruptions and ensure equitable distribution of urea to all states.
