Odisha Government Directs Officials to Improve Fertiliser Supply Chain Amid Farmer Protests

The Odisha government has instructed officials to enhance coordination in the fertiliser distribution process to address farmer concerns. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja emphasised the importance of timely supply amidst ongoing protests and opposition criticism.

The Odisha government has instructed authorities to enhance coordination among departments involved in fertiliser distribution. This directive follows criticism from the opposition BJD regarding alleged mismanagement and farmer protests. Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja led a meeting to address these concerns, urging district collectors to ensure fertilisers reach farmers efficiently. The meeting included officials from various departments, including the Agriculture and Farmers Empowerment Department and Markfed Odisha State Co-operative Marketing Federation Limited.

The state government reported that 11,15,369 metric tons of fertiliser have been made available, with 8,67,000 metric tons already sold. The demand for fertilisers has risen due to a satisfactory monsoon. To facilitate timely delivery, coordination is being strengthened with the Agriculture Department and transport authorities. Enforcement agencies have been instructed to conduct raids to prevent artificial shortages and black marketing.

Fertiliser Distribution Challenges

Despite assurances of adequate fertiliser supply, distribution delays have occurred due to transportation issues. Ahuja emphasised the need for proper coordination in the supply chain to meet farmers' needs promptly. "Maintain proper coordination in the supply chain, fertiliser stock and distribution system to ensure timely supply of fertilisers to the farmers as per their requirements," Ahuja stated.

The BJD has criticised the government's response as insufficient and delayed. They argue that proactive planning is necessary rather than last-minute measures. The party's vice-president, Atanu S Nayak, highlighted rampant black marketing, with urea bags priced at Rs 260 being sold for Rs 800 to Rs 1000 in the black market. Farmers across the state have protested due to fertiliser unavailability.

Political Reactions and Farmer Protests

Opposition Congress president Bhakta Charan Das also expressed concern over the fertiliser shortage, blaming the state's BJP government. He noted that farmers are protesting instead of working in their fields during peak monsoon periods. Meanwhile, BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty claimed that government action against black-marketing only followed after Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik's letter to Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister J P Nadda.

Patnaik's letter sought intervention following farmer protests in Malkangiri, Ganjam, and Nabarangpur. Mohanty remarked that while the government's response acknowledges the crisis affecting many farmers, it seems inadequate given the situation's severity.

The state government has initiated action against some fertiliser dealers and shop owners for irregular supply practices leading to farmer unrest. However, critics argue that these measures are reactive rather than preventive. The ongoing protests highlight the urgent need for effective solutions to address distribution challenges and support farmers during critical agricultural periods.

With inputs from PTI