Lucknow – Farmers in Uttar Pradesh can breathe a sigh of relief as Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi announced today that the state has ample fertilizer stock for the 2025 Kharif season. With concerns about shortages making headlines in other parts of India, Shahi’s statement comes as a reassurance for UP’s agricultural community. The minister emphasized that the state is well-prepared to meet farmers’ needs, particularly for urea, DAP, and NPK fertilizers. Here’s the latest on this developing story, with updates as events unfold.
A Robust Fertilizer Supply for UP Farmers
Speaking to reporters in Lucknow, Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi shared encouraging news for farmers gearing up for the Kharif season. “Uttar Pradesh has sufficient fertilizer stock this year,” he said, detailing that the state has secured 27 lakh metric tons of urea so far, with an additional 10 lakh metric tons on the way. The cooperative sector alone has 114,134 metric tons of urea available at retail outlets and 192,745 metric tons in district warehouses. Add to that the private sector’s 1,145,690 metric tons, and UP’s total urea stock stands at a hefty 1,425,569 metric tons.
Shahi also confirmed that supplies of DAP (Di-ammonium Phosphate) and NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) fertilizers are robust, addressing concerns raised by opposition leaders about potential shortages. “There’s no need for farmers to worry. The government is committed to ensuring timely supply of fertilizers and seeds,” he said, urging farmers to buy only what they need for their crops and avoid hoarding.
This announcement comes at a critical time as the Kharif season is in full swing, with farmers across UP preparing their fields for crops like rice, maize, and sugarcane. The minister’s remarks aim to counter claims of fertilizer scarcity, which have sparked protests and political debates in states like Telangana.
Political Backdrop and Farmer Concerns
The issue of fertilizer availability has been a hot topic nationwide, especially after reports of China halting exports of specialty fertilizers like DAP, causing a global supply squeeze. In UP, opposition leaders, including Congress’s Rahul Gandhi, have accused the government of failing to address shortages, particularly in states dependent on imports. Gandhi recently claimed that farmers are struggling with debt and crop losses due to a lack of essential fertilizers like urea and DAP.
In response, Shahi dismissed these allegations, calling them politically motivated. “UP is not facing the issues seen elsewhere. Our farmers have access to enough fertilizers, and we’re ensuring smooth distribution,” he said. The minister also highlighted that UP’s fertilizer stock this year is higher than last year.
However, some farmers remain cautious. “We’ve heard promises before, but sometimes the fertilizers don’t reach our villages on time,” said a farmer from Gorakhpur.
Challenges and Government Action
While UP seems to have dodged the fertilizer shortage bullet, the broader context is challenging. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently called for diversifying India’s fertilizer supply chain to reduce reliance on countries like China, which has cut exports of key raw materials like DAP. This has pushed up global prices, affecting states like Telangana, where farmers are paying inflated rates for urea.
In UP, the government is taking steps to stay ahead. Shahi noted that the state is working with both cooperative and private sectors to streamline distribution. “We’re also cracking down on anyone trying to hoard or sell fertilizers at higher prices,” he warned, signaling a zero-tolerance policy for black-market activities.
Looking Ahead
As the Kharif season progresses, the focus will be on whether UP’s fertilizer stocks translate into smooth access for farmers in remote areas. The government’s promise of timely supply is a positive step, but effective last-mile delivery will be key. For now, Shahi’s announcement has eased some worries, giving farmers hope for a productive season.
