In the upcoming kharif season, the Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers DV Sadananada Gowda has asked the fertilizer industry to ensure there is adequate supply of fertilizers to the farming community.  

 

"Had a fruitful discussion through video conferencing with stakeholders from the Fertilizer Industries along with Minister of State Mansukh Mandviya Ji, Secretary Fertilizers and government officials to discuss various issues related to Fertilizer Industries", the minister twitted.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Gowda said, “I would like to thank all the industry captains present here for cooperating with the government to contain the adverse impact of the Corona pandemic. The crisis and consequent lockdown had thrown up several challenges which could have adversely impacted availability of fertilizers across the country. Fortunately, all of us were able to rise to the occasion and had ensured that fertilizer availability for the upcoming kharif crop is comfortable."

 

"As you know that kharif season has started, and farmers in various parts of the country have started their farming operations. In addition, we may experience a good monsoon season this year so demand for fertilisers may continue to remain at a higher level this year also. Compared to last year, DBT sales of both urea and P & K fertilisers have been significantly higher in the months of April, May and June this year," said Gowda. 

 

"The requirement of urea during Kharif season is estimated at 170 Lakh MT while production may be around 133 Lakh MT. The difference will be made available through imports. Already two global tenders have been floated and the department will continue to import urea to meet the requirements of farmers across the country," added Gowda.               

 

Praising the efforts of officers of the Department of Fertilizers, Gowda said, "They worked day and night during the lockdown, and in close coordination with State Governments, Ministry of Railways and MHA to see that logistical issues faced by fertilizers units with respect to hurdles in movement of raw materials, staffs and fertilizers are sorted out."