Is the Urea Fertiliser Shortage Causing Unrest Among Farmers? Siddaramaiah Calls on Union Minister Nadda to Accelerate Supply
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Synopsis
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah has urgently requested Union Minister J.P. Nadda to accelerate urea supply to farmers amidst rising unrest due to shortages. With a significant increase in crop coverage and demand, timely action is crucial to prevent further distress among agricultural communities.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent request for urea supply made by CM Siddaramaiah.
- Farmers facing distress due to fertiliser shortage.
- Increase in crop coverage amid early monsoon.
- Opposition highlights government negligence.
- Criminals exploiting the situation with black market sales.
Bengaluru, July 25 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reached out to Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilisers, J.P. Nadda, requesting the swift delivery of 1.65 lakh metric tonnes of urea allocated to the state, emphasizing the necessity for farmers.
In his correspondence, he noted, "The escalating demand for urea fertiliser has led to unrest among farmers."
The Government of India has earmarked 11,17,000 metric tonnes of urea for Karnataka for the Kharif-2025 season; however, only 5,16,959 MT has been delivered to date. The state's requirement from April to July is 6,80,655 MT. Furthermore, several fertiliser companies have reported challenges in meeting the government's allocation, according to CM Siddaramaiah.
He further stressed the urgent necessity for urea, remarking, "With the early onset of monsoons this year, crop coverage has expanded compared to previous years. The early release of water in the command areas of Tungabhadra, Cauvery, and Krishna has spurred early sowing activities."
The area planted with maize, a crop that requires significant fertiliser, has risen by approximately 2 lakh hectares, while the land designated for pulses has seen a decline. Additionally, around 13,000 hectares of the pre-Kharif area have been resown.
State Agriculture Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy has advised farmers to remain calm regarding fertiliser availability, including urea, and to refrain from advance stocking.
Farmers statewide are reportedly lining up at fertiliser outlets to secure their supplies, exacerbating the ongoing crisis.
In contrast, the opposition BJP has claimed that the Congress-led Karnataka government’s negligence has left farmers struggling despite favorable monsoon conditions. Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka stated, "If the Agriculture Department had acted promptly to secure adequate fertiliser stocks earlier this season, we wouldn’t be in this predicament. Our food providers shouldn’t have to protest for their needs."
Furthermore, he alleged that criminals are exploiting the fertiliser shortage by selling it at inflated prices on the black market, further distressing farmers.
The Congress government must take immediate action to ensure proper fertiliser stocking and distribution, or else the Karnataka BJP will mobilize a strong protest in support of farmers, he concluded.
Point of View
The situation in Karnataka reflects broader agricultural challenges faced across the country. Farmers are the backbone of India's economy, and ensuring their access to essential resources like urea fertiliser is critical. The government must prioritize timely supply and support measures to alleviate distress and maintain agricultural productivity.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there a shortage of urea fertiliser in Karnataka?
The shortage is due to increased demand and delays in supply from fertiliser companies, failing to meet the state's allocation.
What has the Karnataka government requested regarding urea fertiliser?
The Karnataka government has requested the Union government to expedite the supply of 1.65 lakh metric tonnes of urea.
How has the early monsoon affected crop coverage?
The early monsoon has led to an increase in crop coverage, particularly in maize, which is a high-fertiliser-consuming crop.
What actions are being taken to address the fertiliser shortage?
The Karnataka government is urging for increased supply from the Union government and advising farmers to avoid panic buying.
What are the consequences of the fertiliser shortage?
The fertiliser shortage has caused unrest among farmers, leading to long queues at shops and concerns over crop yields.
