Odisha Has No Fertilizer Shortage, Says Minister; Farmers Advised to Use Alternatives

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Odisha has received 1.81 lakh metric tonnes of fertilizer as of July 17.
1.14 lakh metric tonnes have already been supplied to PACS across the state.
The government has warned of strict action against black marketing of fertilizers

BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha fertilizer supply remains adequate despite earlier reports of shortages in some districts, the state government has said. Cooperation Minister Pradip Balasamanta stated that sufficient fertilizer stocks are available and distribution is being carried out on schedule to meet farmers’ requirements during the ongoing Kharif season.

The Minister also warned that strict action would be taken against anyone involved in black marketing or illegal hoarding of fertilizers.

Odisha Fertilizer Supply Reaches PACS Across the State

According to the state government, 1.81 lakh metric tonnes of fertilizer had reached Odisha by July 17.

Of this, around 1.14 lakh metric tonnes have already been dispatched to Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) for distribution among farmers.

The government said timely supply through PACS is intended to ensure that cultivators receive fertilizers without disruption during the peak sowing period.

Earlier, complaints regarding fertilizer shortages had emerged from several districts, prompting authorities to review stock availability and strengthen distribution.

Agriculture Department Promotes Alternative Fertilizers

To improve nutrient management and address fluctuations in the availability of certain fertilizers, the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment has directed district administrations to encourage the use of suitable alternatives.

In a communication sent to all District Collectors, the department recommended the use of Ammonium Sulphate in place of urea wherever appropriate.

The department noted that Ammonium Sulphate contains:

20.5% Nitrogen
23% Sulphur

Officials said the fertilizer not only supplies nitrogen required for crop growth but also helps correct sulphur deficiency in soil, thereby supporting balanced plant nutrition and improving soil health.

The advisory has also been issued in view of the demand and supply situation for urea and Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) during the current agricultural season.

Government Warns Against Black Marketing

The state government has reiterated that adequate fertilizer stocks are available and urged farmers to purchase fertilizers only from authorised outlets and cooperative societies.

Authorities have warned that any individual or trader found indulging in black marketing, hoarding or overpricing of fertilizers will face strict legal action.