Is the MP Government Pressuring Farmers to Buy Nano Fertilisers?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Farmers in Madhya Pradesh are reportedly being forced to buy nano fertilisers.
- The Congress party has raised concerns about fertiliser shortages.
- Allegations of black marketing persist in the state.
- Government officials claim the decision to use nano fertilisers is voluntary.
- Chief Minister has called for accountability in fertiliser distribution.
Shahdol (Madhya Pradesh), Sep 18 (NationPress) In light of ongoing claims regarding fertiliser shortages, inconsistencies in distribution, and black marketing across Madhya Pradesh, a new debate has surfaced concerning nano fertilisers.
On Thursday, the Congress party asserted that farmers are being coerced into purchasing nano fertiliser along with packets of solid DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) and urea fertilisers. Those who refuse to buy nano fertiliser face denial of solid DAP and urea at government-run distribution points.
Nano fertilisers, a liquid alternative to traditional solid forms of DAP and urea, retail for approximately Rs 500 to 600 per bottle.
These nano fertilisers have been regularly incorporated into the monthly supply plan issued by the Department of Fertilisers.
During an inspection at a distribution centre in Umaria district, State Congress President Jitu Patwari received feedback from farmers indicating that they are being compelled to buy nano fertilisers.
Farmers have also reported shortages of DAP and urea.
However, the government employee overseeing fertiliser distribution claimed, "Farmers are encouraged to use this liquid fertiliser due to ongoing promotion. Ultimately, it is their decision whether to purchase it or not."
Later, in discussions with the media, Patwari alleged that solid DAP and urea are being allocated to private vendors, forcing farmers to opt for liquid nano fertiliser.
"Despite clear directives from Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, the BJP government has failed to curb black-marketing of fertilisers," he stated.
Recently, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav instructed district collectors to guarantee that farmers have access to adequate fertiliser from government-run distribution centres.
He emphasized that collectors would be held fully accountable for any fertiliser shortages or unrest due to distribution irregularities.
A press release from the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers in July indicated that nano fertilisers are being promoted through various initiatives, including awareness camps, webinars, field demonstrations, Kisan sammelans, and films in regional languages.
"Nano urea and nano DAP are supplied at Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendras (PMKSKs) by relevant companies. Nano urea has been regularly included in the monthly supply plan issued by the Department of Fertilisers," the Ministry's statement noted.
This isn't the first instance where the use of liquid fertilisers has sparked controversy in Madhya Pradesh.
The Congress party has persistently raised concerns regarding the distribution of nano fertilisers on multiple occasions.