What Actions is CM Mohan Majhi Taking to Address Fertilizer Supply Issues in Odisha?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strict Monitoring: District collectors are mandated to oversee fertilizer supply.
- Immediate Actions: Swift action against black marketing and hoarding is encouraged.
- No Shortage: The state confirms adequate fertilizer supply amidst complaints.
- Government Support: 9,55,000 metric tonnes allocated for the Kharif Season.
- Farmers' Assistance: Aid is being provided to flood-affected farmers.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 11 (NationPress) In response to rising concerns about fertilizer shortages across various regions of the state, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has mandated all district collectors to rigorously oversee the distribution of fertiliser via Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and Large-Sized Adivasi Multipurpose Cooperative Societies (LAMPCS).
CM Majhi communicated these directives during a high-level review meeting convened in Bhubaneswar to assess the current status of fertilizer supply. He urged officials from the relevant departments to take immediate action upon receiving any reports of black marketing, hoarding, or the distribution of counterfeit fertiliser to farmers.
Furthermore, CM Majhi instructed that any fertilizer seized during raids related to black marketing should be redirected to local PACS or LAMPCS, ensuring farmers receive their rightful supply.
According to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, there is no actual shortage of fertiliser in the state, and its distribution is proceeding efficiently in alignment with district needs.
Reports indicate that the central government has allocated 9,55,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser necessary for the state until September 30, during the ongoing Kharif Season, 2025.
The review meeting also revealed that 9,85,967 metric tonnes of the 11,66,733 metric tonnes of fertilizer stock held by the state government has already been sold.
CM Majhi urged the state agriculture department to distribute fertiliser of various grades to PACS and LAMPCS after evaluating the available stock and conditions in different districts.
Additionally, officials from the Odisha State Co-operative Marketing Federation (MARKFED-Odisha) have been directed to hasten the distribution of fertiliser to farmers.
To combat illegal activities, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for heightened enforcement measures, including routine checks at district and block levels to prevent black marketing.
“The state government is implementing various initiatives to prioritize Crop Diversification and the Integrated Farming System in each district, alongside promoting the cultivation of oilseeds and pulses. Through the 'Samrudha Krushak Yojana', we aim to enhance agricultural productivity,” stated Majhi.
Damage assessments are currently underway in flood-affected regions, with essential aid being provided to farmers there. He further stressed the importance of ensuring that farmers in these areas do not encounter any difficulties.