Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has ensured the availability of 25.74 lakh metric tons of fertilizers across all 75 districts, according to Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi. The minister stated that the state has sufficient fertilizers, but strict action will be taken against those involved in black marketing and overcharging.
The minister revealed that inspections were conducted in several districts, including Lucknow and Sitapur, where dozens of fertilizer dealers were found violating rules. FIRs have been lodged, and licenses have been canceled or suspended. In Sitapur, the district agriculture officer was suspended for not conducting inspections.
The Uttar Pradesh government is committed to providing farmers with timely and affordable access to fertilizers. The government aims to promote balanced use of fertilizers and reduce the impact of chemical fertilizers on soil fertility. To achieve this, the government has decided to allow only active retailers to sell fertilizers. The sale of fertilizers will be based on farmers' land records, and receipts and rate lists will be mandatory.
The government has taken a serious view of overcharging and black marketing, and strict action will be taken against those found guilty. In Lucknow's BKT, two fertilizer dealers were found selling fertilizers at higher prices, and their licenses were canceled, and FIRs were lodged. Similarly, in Sitapur's Sidhouli and Sanda, several dealers were found absent, and their premises were sealed.
The Uttar Pradesh government is determined to ensure that farmers get fertilizers at the right price and time. The government will continue to take strict action against those involved in black marketing and overcharging, and will work towards promoting sustainable agriculture practices in the state .
