Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Saturday assured that farmers will continue to receive urea and di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) at subsidised rates, despite global supply concerns arising from the Middle East crisis. He stated that the government has adequate fertiliser stocks and is prepared to handle any impact from El Nino.
Government Assurances on Fertiliser Supply
Addressing reporters after the BRICS agriculture meeting in Indore, Chouhan emphasised that India has sufficient fertiliser stocks for the ongoing kharif season and is taking steps to ensure adequate supplies for the upcoming rabi crop cycle. "Our government has decided that farmers will continue to get urea and DAP at affordable rates. The government is bearing the burden of increased prices," Chouhan said, as quoted by news agency PTI.
He further noted, "This will put an additional burden of thousands of crores of rupees on the exchequer, but we are prepared to bear it in the interest of farmers."
Preparations for Rabi Season
The minister highlighted the government's efforts to prevent any fertiliser shortage in the coming crop season. "Our government is making every possible effort to ensure sufficient fertiliser availability for rabi crops as well. I am confident that we will succeed in these efforts under all circumstances," he said.
Discussions during the five-day BRICS agriculture meeting also focused on the balanced use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Chouhan noted that India is already implementing several programmes to promote organic and natural farming as part of efforts to make agriculture more sustainable.
El Nino Preparedness
Responding to concerns over the potential impact of El Nino on India, Chouhan said the government has taken adequate precautions. "El Nino will have an impact on India as well as other countries, but we have made adequate preparations. We will also cooperate with other nations through exchange of information and best practices," he said. El Nino is a climate phenomenon historically associated with weaker monsoon rainfall.
The government's commitment to subsidised fertilisers and proactive measures against global uncertainties and climate risks underscore its focus on supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring food security.
