K'taka faces shortage of fertilisers: Minister

Shimoga, Aug 9 (UNI) Karnataka Agriculture Minister S A Ravindranath today alleged that the State faced shortage of fertilisers to the tune of one lakh tonnes due to 'unhelpful' attitude of the Centre.

Speaking to reporters here, Mr Ravindranath alleged that despite several requests, the Union Government had so far failed to ensure enough supply of fertilisers to the State, which had faced severe shortfall earlier this season.

However, the Minister called upon the farmers to reduce dependency on chemical fertilisers and take to organic farming.

''We should bring down the quantum of use of urea and compost fertilisers,'' he said.

The BJP Government would bring in a new agriculture policy before it completes 100 days in office, he added.

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