Fertiliser Crisis Looms: Nadda Promises Quick Urea Supply to Karnataka

Union Minister JP Nadda has assured Karnataka farmers of receiving 1.35 lakh metric tonnes of urea within 10 to 15 days. Ex-CM Basavaraj Bommai highlights the crisis caused by early rains and mismanagement in distribution, urging immediate intervention to relieve distressed farmers battling corruption and supply issues.

Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers JP Nadda has committed to supplying 1.35 lakh metric tonnes of urea to Karnataka within the next 10 to 15 days. The announcement was made during a joint press conference in New Delhi, where former Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai highlighted the urgent need for fertilisers due to early monsoon rains.

The increased cultivation of maize and inadequate forecasts by the Agriculture Department have raised demand sooner than usual, leading to financial strains on farmers. Bommai criticized the state's distribution mishandling and corruption, noting the prevalent black-market sales of urea and the hardship imposed on small farmers forced to buy at high prices.

Bommai urged the state to efficiently manage its existing 1.35 lakh metric tonnes of stock and distribute it via cooperative societies, while pointing out that the Centre has instructed against linking urea sale with other fertilisers. Immediate steps are needed, as farmers are facing severe distress amid administrative lapses.

(With inputs from agencies.)