New Delhi, March 6 (NationPress) In response to market uncertainties stemming from geopolitical tensions in West Asia and the Strait of Hormuz, the Centre's Department of Fertilisers has provided a strong reassurance to the agricultural sector that India's fertiliser reserves are adequate and ready for the forthcoming kharif season.

The Department of Fertilisers indicated that the nation's fertiliser reserves have surged by an impressive 36.5 percent, increasing from 129.85 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) on March 6, 2025, to 177.31 LMT as of March 6, 2026.

This substantial stockpile is attributed to a significant rise in essential soil nutrients, particularly with DAP stocks now at 25.13 LMT and NPK reserves climbing to 55.87 LMT. Additionally, the availability of urea — the most widely used fertiliser in the country — has escalated to 59.30 LMT. "This strong inventory underscores the nation's preparedness and resilience against any potential disruptions in global supply chains as we approach the critical Kharif sowing period," the official statement remarked.

These fertiliser stocks, which are markedly higher than last year's figures, provide a crucial operational buffer, ensuring that international logistics challenges do not lead to domestic shortages for farmers.

To maintain a steady supply of all grades of subsidised fertilisers, the department has proactively arranged for key incoming shipments. So far, the government has imported 98 lakh metric tonnes of finished fertilisers up to February 2026, with an additional 17 lakh metric tonnes scheduled for the next three months.

Moreover, to shield the country from fluctuations in regional pricing and supply, Indian firms have established long-term agreements with major global providers of P&K fertilisers, as stated in the report.

The government is also making efforts to optimize resources amidst the current LNG supply challenges. In a comprehensive review meeting within the department, officials assured fertiliser companies that gas supply to their sector remains a national priority. The department emphasized that the welfare of farmers is paramount and will not be compromised under any circumstances. Farmers are encouraged to carry on with their Kharif preparations without fear.

The department noted that during this lean period, fertiliser companies typically schedule maintenance shutdowns. However, these companies have opted to advance their maintenance plans to March to capitalize on this disruptive period. Additionally, multiple global sources are being explored for further imports of finished fertilisers.

The Department of Fertilisers, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, continues to monitor the situation in real-time, ensuring timely import discharge and readiness to implement swift responses as the global energy market evolves, the statement concluded.