Punjab Agriculture Department Cracks Down on Expired Fertilizer and Seed Violations

The Punjab Agriculture Department seized 111 bags of expired fertilizers in Fazilka district and lodged a complaint against a seed dealer for violations. A sample of urea was taken for testing, and 87 fertilizer dealer licenses were canceled. Violations were found regarding seed sales without valid licenses.

In a significant move, the Punjab Agriculture Department has seized 111 bags of expired fertilizers during a routine inspection in Fazilka district. This operation, led by the Chief Agriculture Officer, uncovered numerous violations, including expired storage and improper mixing of different types of fertilizers, marking an ongoing effort to enforce agricultural regulations.

Following this discovery, the department has lodged a complaint against a seed dealer in Malerkotla for flouting the Seed (Control) Order 1983 and Seed Rules 1968. The department took samples for testing and seized stock registers, hinting at a robust legal framework against offenders.

Highlighting their stringent quality control drive, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian announced the cancellation of 87 licenses of fertilizer dealers and eight FIRs. The crackdown also revealed sales of unbilled maize seeds with expired licenses, actions punishable under the Essential Commodities Act 1955.

(With inputs from agencies.)