Government Confirms Strong Fertiliser Stock Amidst West Asia Tensions
Synopsis
Despite the ongoing crisis in West Asia, the Indian government reassures that fertiliser stocks are healthy, rising to 180 lakh metric tonnes. This article outlines the implications for farmers and the agricultural sector as domestic urea production faces challenges.
Key Takeaways
Current fertiliser stock: 180 lakh metric tonnes.
Urea production: Facing challenges.
Long-term supply agreements: Secured with Saudi Arabia.
Diverse sourcing: From multiple countries including Russia and Morocco.
Petroleum product stocks: Remain adequate.
New Delhi, March 30 (NationPress) The government announced on Monday that the current fertiliser stock stands at a robust 180 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), up from 147 LMT last year, despite the ongoing crisis in West Asia and associated supply challenges.
Aparna Sharma, Additional Secretary in the Department of Fertilisers, noted that domestic urea production has experienced some setbacks.
"Currently, we maintain a strong stock position. Urea and Diammonium phosphate (DAP) are being provided to farmers at controlled prices," she stated during an inter-ministerial briefing, emphasizing that supplies are stable.
Sharma further highlighted that the global fertiliser market is facing pressures, causing price hikes due to the current geopolitical circumstances. Our freight expenses have also seen an increase,” she added.
India's reliance on imports for urea and phosphatic fertilisers is significant to fulfill the agricultural sector's demands. To secure a consistent supply given this reliance, the Department of Fertilisers has facilitated long-term agreements between Indian firms KRIBHCO, IPL, and CIL with Saudi Arabia’s Maaden, ensuring an annual supply of 31 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of DAP and NPK over five years, from 2025-26 to 2029-30.
Additionally, Sharma mentioned that April and May are typically slow months for agricultural activity, used for building inventory, and that supplies have been pre-arranged. "We are broadening our sourcing options, procuring from countries like Russia, Morocco, Australia, Algeria, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Canada," she noted.
Meanwhile, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary for Marketing and Oil Refinery in the Petroleum Ministry, stated during the regular briefing that product inventories remain adequate, with sufficient stocks of petrol, diesel, LPG, and LNG across the nation.
“Crude inventories are also sufficient,” she remarked. The ministries have endorsed the expansion of piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure, alongside rolling out relief measures for vulnerable groups.
In the past two days, there have been approximately 1.04 crore LPG booking requests, with 92 lakh deliveries successfully completed.
Enforcement actions have increased, with 2,500 raids and 2,000 cylinders seized on Sunday, Sharma reported.
Point of View
The government's assurance regarding fertiliser stock levels is crucial for maintaining agricultural productivity. With rising global prices and geopolitical tensions, the proactive measures taken to secure supplies are commendable. It reflects a commitment to supporting farmers during uncertain times, ensuring food security.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current fertiliser stock in India?
India currently has a fertiliser stock of 180 lakh metric tonnes (LMT).
How does the West Asia crisis affect fertiliser supply?
The crisis has led to increased global prices and freight costs, impacting overall supply.
What measures is the government taking to ensure fertiliser supply?
The government is signing long-term agreements for fertiliser imports to stabilize supply.
Are there adequate stocks of other petroleum products?
Yes, the government confirms that petrol, diesel, LPG, and LNG stocks are sufficient.
What is the expected impact on farmers?
Farmers will continue to receive urea and DAP at regulated prices, despite production challenges.
