Farmers protest shortage of fertiliser, seek action against black marketing

Farmers from several villages in the Kalanwali subdivision have been facing significant challenges due to a shortage of DAP (Di-ammonium Phosphate) fertiliser.

Bags being sold at inflated prices

Advertisement

In Kalanwali, the severe shortage of DAP has hindered farmers’ ability to plant wheat and mustard crops. Farmers say DAP is being sold at inflated prices, with bags priced at Rs 1,350 being sold for Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,000. Besides, shopkeepers are reportedly forcing farmers to buy products like zinc, sulphur and nano fertilisers along with DAP and urea

In response, hundreds of farmers gathered at the grain market on Saturday to voice their dissatisfaction and urged the government and administration to ensure an adequate supply of DAP. They also demanded strict action against shopkeepers engaged in black marketing of DAP and urea, and those compelling farmers to purchase additional items along with fertilisers.

Farmers, including Jaspal Singh, Sukhchain, Gursharan Singh and Jagat Singh, highlighted that while the government claims sufficient DAP supply in the state, the ground reality tells a different story.

In Kalanwali, the severe shortage of DAP has hindered farmers’ ability to plant wheat and mustard crops. They reported that DAP is being sold at inflated prices, with bags priced at Rs 1,350 being sold for Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,000.

Additionally, shopkeepers are reportedly forcing farmers to buy products like zinc, sulphur and nano fertilisers along with DAP and urea.

Farmers also accused the authorities of remaining silent despite being aware of the issues.

Addressing the crisis, Dr Rakesh Kumar, Subject Matter Specialist of the Agriculture Department, confirmed that a shipment of DAP has arrived in Sirsa and will be distributed today at four firms in Kalanwali. Dr Kumar himself will distribute tokens to farmers for the fertiliser. He assured that strict action would be taken against shopkeepers found black marketing DAP or forcing farmers to purchase additional items along with fertilisers.