Minister warns officials, private dealers against forcible sale of agricultural inputs to farmers

Haryana Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana on Sunday warned government officials and private fertiliser and pesticide dealers against pressuring farmers into buying additional agricultural inputs, along with DAP and urea.

He said such a coercive practice was completely prohibited and would invite immediate and stringent action. “Farmers cannot be forced to purchase unwanted products. The practice is unethical and a direct violation of both Central and State Government’s policies,” said Rana at a programme in Yamunanagar.

He added that strict guidelines regarding fertiliser distribution had already been issued. “Any officer or dealer found violating these norms will not be spared under any circumstances,” said Rana.

The minister directed all Deputy Directors of Agriculture (DDAs), posted at district headquarters, to take immediate cognizance of such complaints, conduct spot inspections and initiate action — ranging from licence suspension to filing criminal cases against those found guilty.

He said a special monitoring mechanism had been activated to keep track of violations. To the farmers, Rana said if any officer or dealer pressured them to buying additional products with DAP or urea, they should immediately call the toll-free number 18001801551 or file a complaint at the district agriculture office.

He added that farmers might also register their grievances with agriculture officers at the block or district level. “The government will take swift action and ensure strict punishment for the guilty,” he assured. Addressing the concerns regarding fertiliser availability, Rana said there was adequate stock in the state for the rabi season.

“Haryana has already received enough DAP and urea supplies from the Central Government and sufficient buffer stock has been maintained across all districts,” he said.

The minister added that fertiliser distribution was being carried out through PACS, private dealers and centres of the Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board. He added that mandatory biometric authentication on POS machines had effectively curbed black marketeering of fertiliser.

Referring to recent complaints of forced sales, Rana said immediate action was taken, FIRs were registered against dealers and their licences were suspended.

The minister said the Nayab Saini government was committed to resolving every issue faced by the farmers.

“The farmers need not worry. You will receive fertilisers in time and in required quantity. No dealer or officer will be allowed to exploit farmers,” he added.