Is K'taka CM Misleading the Public on Fertilizer Shortage?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has sharply criticized Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for allegedly misleading the public on fertilizer supply. With the state receiving more urea than requested, Joshi emphasizes the importance of accurate communication amidst rising tensions among farmers.
Key Takeaways
- Union Minister Pralhad Joshi criticizes CM Siddaramaiah for misleading statements.
- Karnataka received 8.73 lakh metric tonnes of urea, surpassing the demand.
- State Agriculture Minister confirmed no urea shortage exists.
- CM Siddaramaiah requested expedited urea supply for farmers.
- Accurate communication is vital for farmers' welfare.
Bengaluru, July 26 (NationPress) Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi has vehemently criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, claiming he is misleading the citizens of Karnataka with inaccurate statements about the state's fertilizer supply.
According to Joshi, the Karnataka government requested 6.30 lakh metric tonnes of urea for the Kharif season, yet the Department of Fertilizers has proactively supplied 8.73 lakh metric tonnes of urea to support local farmers.
He further detailed that 7.08 lakh metric tonnes of urea have already been distributed within the state. This extensive distribution was made possible due to the central government’s commitment to ensuring a sufficient and timely fertilizer supply. "Despite these facts, CM Siddaramaiah continues to criticize the Centre, which is truly regrettable," Joshi remarked, denouncing the Chief Minister's comments.
Joshi stated: "It appears that lying has become a routine for Siddaramaiah. He consistently begins his remarks by blaming the central government, irrespective of the actual situation."
He pointed out that State Agriculture Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy has already confirmed that there is no urea shortage in Karnataka and that sufficient stock is available. "In this context, CM Siddaramaiah's ongoing misrepresentation of the facts is intolerable," he asserted.
"Regarding fertilizer supply and availability, the State Agriculture Minister has acknowledged the truth and made it public. Nonetheless, the Chief Minister continues to propagate false and unfounded claims. He is utilizing these untruths to distract from the internal conflicts within his administration, the deteriorating financial state of the region, and his governance failures. Making unfounded accusations against the Central government to mask his shortcomings is inexcusable," Joshi explained.
The Department of Fertilizers (DoF) confirmed that it has provided timely and adequate availability of 8.73 lakh metric tonnes of urea, exceeding the pro-rata requirement of 6.30 lakh metric tonnes to Karnataka during the current Kharif 2025 season thus far.
During this period, the state has recorded sales of 7.08 LMT, significantly surpassing the pro-rata requirement.
The DoF continues to vigilantly monitor the situation and collaborate with the state government to guarantee that Karnataka’s farmers have timely access to urea throughout the Kharif season, it stated.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has requested Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilizers J.P. Nadda to hasten the supply of 1.65 lakh metric tonnes of urea fertilizer according to the state’s allocation for the welfare of farmers. "The rising demand for urea fertilizer is causing unrest among farmers," he emphasized.
CM Siddaramaiah communicated this request to Union Minister Nadda in a letter on Friday.
"The government of India has allocated 11,17,000 metric tonnes of urea to Karnataka for Kharif 2025, out of which only 5,16,959 metric tonnes have been supplied to date, while the state's requirement for urea from April to July is 6,80,655 metric tonnes. Additionally, some fertilizer companies have indicated their inability to meet the supply allocation made by the government of India," CM Siddaramaiah stated.
Point of View
It's crucial to remain impartial. The ongoing dispute between Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah highlights the need for transparency in governmental communication. Accurate information regarding agricultural supplies is vital for farmers, and both parties must strive to provide factual updates to the public.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current fertilizer supply situation in Karnataka?
The Department of Fertilizers has supplied 8.73 lakh metric tonnes of urea to Karnataka, exceeding the state's request of 6.30 lakh metric tonnes.
Who is accusing whom in the fertilizer supply controversy?
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi is accusing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of misleading the public regarding the fertilizer supply situation in Karnataka.
What has the State Agriculture Minister stated about urea availability?
State Agriculture Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy confirmed that there is no shortage of urea in Karnataka and sufficient supplies are available.
What actions has CM Siddaramaiah taken regarding urea supply?
CM Siddaramaiah has requested Union Minister J.P. Nadda to expedite the supply of 1.65 lakh metric tonnes of urea fertilizer for farmers.
What are the implications of this fertilizer dispute for farmers?
The dispute highlights the need for accurate information on fertilizer availability, as misconceptions can lead to unrest among farmers.
