Is Tamil Nadu Ready for the Samba Season with Sufficient Fertiliser Stock?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On October 14, Tamil Nadu's Agriculture Minister M.R.K. Panneerselvam confirmed an adequate supply of fertilisers for the Samba season. His directives to officials ensure that farmers receive uninterrupted access to essential resources, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improved crop yields.
Key Takeaways
- Minister M.R.K. Panneerselvam confirms adequate fertiliser supply.
- Target of 55 lakh acres for paddy cultivation.
- Union government allocated an additional 12,000 metric tonnes of urea.
- Focus on transitioning to bio-fertilisers and green manure.
- Continuous monitoring to ensure sustainability in agriculture.
Chennai, Oct 14 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister M.R.K. Panneerselvam assured on Tuesday that the state possesses sufficient fertiliser stock for the ongoing Samba cultivation season. He urged officials to guarantee an uninterrupted supply to farmers throughout the districts in Tamil Nadu.
During a review meeting with district agriculture officers, cooperative societies, and fertiliser manufacturers, the Minister highlighted that the state government aims to cultivate 55 lakh acres of paddy this year.
“To date, over 10.35 lakh acres have been dedicated to Samba cultivation, with Kuruvai harvest operations achieving unprecedented results not seen in the last fifty years,” he remarked.
Panneerselvam mentioned that the Union government allocated an extra 12,000 metric tonnes of urea to Tamil Nadu in response to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's request for seasonal demands.
He instructed officials to ensure swift distribution and monitor retail outlets to prevent the illegal bundling of fertilisers with other products.
The Minister tasked cooperative federations, such as Tamil Nadu Cooperative Marketing Federation Limited (TANFED) and Tamil Nadu Co-operative Milk Producers' Federation Limited, to maintain adequate buffer stocks and verify inventory data through inspection committees.
“District officials must perform daily inspections and ensure immediate replenishment in areas experiencing shortages,” he emphasized.
Highlighting sustainable agriculture's significance, Panneerselvam urged farmers to gradually decrease their reliance on chemical fertilisers and transition to bio-fertilisers and green manure.
He stressed the need for ongoing field monitoring, timely pest management guidance, and soil health recommendations, especially in regions impacted by leaf folder and stem borer infestations.
The Minister also disclosed that special inspection teams conducted surprise checks in over 14,000 fertiliser outlets statewide, uncovering 1,409 violations under the Fertiliser Control Order, 1985.
“Field scientists and agricultural experts are being deployed to assist farmers in crop management and ensure fertilisers are utilized wisely for improved yield and soil sustainability,” he stated.
Reiterating the state’s commitment to farmers, Panneerselvam affirmed that Tamil Nadu's Agriculture Department will continue to collaborate closely with cooperative societies and input suppliers to ensure timely access to quality fertilisers and promote environmentally responsible farming practices across all districts.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize Tamil Nadu's proactive approach towards agriculture. The measures taken by the state government to ensure adequate fertiliser supply reflect a commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity while promoting sustainable practices. This balance is crucial for the state's farmers and the overall agricultural ecosystem.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is Tamil Nadu taking to ensure fertiliser supply?
Tamil Nadu is ensuring an adequate fertiliser supply by monitoring distribution, maintaining buffer stocks, and conducting surprise checks at retail outlets.
How much land is targeted for Samba cultivation this year?
The state government aims to cultivate 55 lakh acres of paddy during the Samba season.
What has been done to support farmers in Tamil Nadu?
Farmers are being supported through the allocation of additional fertilisers, guidance on sustainable practices, and ongoing monitoring by agricultural experts.
