Centre Asks States to Launch Campaign Against Fake Fertilizers

New Delhi, Jul 14 (KNN) Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has written to the Chief Ministers of all States and Union Territories, urging them to take strict and immediate action against the sale of counterfeit and substandard fertilizers.

The Minister has called for a comprehensive statewide campaign to ensure the availability of quality fertilizers and protect farmers’ interests.

In his letter, Chouhan emphasised that agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy and that providing farmers with timely, affordable, and high-quality fertilizers is essential for ensuring their income stability.

He stressed that the presence of fake and low-quality fertilizers not only harms crop productivity but also poses a serious risk to the livelihoods of millions of farmers.

The Minister pointed out that the sale of substandard fertilizers is strictly prohibited under the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, which falls under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

He directed States to closely monitor fertilizer supply chains and take strong action against malpractices such as black marketing, overpricing, and diversion of subsidized fertilizers.

Specific instructions include regular testing and monitoring of fertilizers to detect inferior products, an immediate stop to forced tagging of nano-fertilizers or biostimulants with conventional ones, and strict legal action including cancellation of licenses and registration of FIRs against violators.

Chouhan also encouraged States to involve farmers and farmer groups in the monitoring process through a feedback mechanism. He urged officials to educate farmers about how to identify genuine and counterfeit products.

According to the Minister, consistent and rigorous action at the State level will help eliminate the issue from its roots and ensure long-term benefits for Indian agriculture.

(KNN Bureau)