In a stern warning to companies and distributors, Uttar Pradesh's Agriculture Minister, Surya Pratap Shahi, declared on Tuesday that the state government will not tolerate any exploitation of farmers or malpractices in the fertiliser supply chain. He emphasised that complaints regarding irregularities in availability, pricing, and sales will be dealt with strictly.
Zero Tolerance on Forced Sales and Black Marketing
The minister stated that strict action will be taken against those involved in forced tagging, overpricing, and black marketing of fertilisers. He specifically highlighted the illegal practice of forcing farmers to buy other products along with subsidised fertilisers, a tactic known as 'tagging'.
"If such a complaint is found in any district, an FIR will be registered against the concerned company, wholesaler, and retailer, and action will be taken to cancel their licences," Shahi asserted. He described this practice not only as a legal violation but also as direct harassment of farmers.
Review Meeting for Rabi Season Supply
The directives were issued during a high-level review meeting on the availability of key fertilisers like urea, DAP, and NPK for the ongoing Rabi season. The meeting, attended by senior officials from various fertiliser companies and departmental officers, scrutinised the supply, distribution, and sales systems across the state.
Shahi expressed concern that such irregularities were tarnishing the image of the state government. He instructed officials to immediately investigate and ensure strict action in areas where incidents of tagging, overcharging, or supply withholding are reported.
Immediate Actions and Weekly Monitoring Ordered
The minister laid out a clear action plan to curb the malpractices. He ordered that the sale of products from companies or agencies found violating the rules should be stopped immediately, with their material sealed and kept safe.
Furthermore, to maintain transparency and accountability, Shahi mandated weekly inspections to closely monitor stock levels and sales data. This move aims to prevent hoarding and ensure an equitable distribution of fertilisers to farmers during the critical Rabi cropping period.
The government's firm stance signals a crackdown on corrupt practices within the agricultural inputs sector, aiming to protect farmers from exploitation and ensure the smooth availability of essential fertilisers.
