Agriculture Sector Steadies Amid West Asia Tensions: Ministry Assures Surplus Kharif Stocks

The Agriculture Ministry assures that the international tensions won't impact the agriculture sector, citing surplus seed and fertilizer stocks for the Kharif season. Additional Secretary Maninder Kaur Dwivedi highlights coordinated preparations, addressing LPG needs for maize drying, and maintaining stable commodity prices, despite geopolitical challenges in West Asia.

The Ministry of Agriculture has provided reassurance amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The Ministry confirmed that the country's agricultural sector and farmers are well-prepared for the upcoming Kharif season, with surplus seeds and fertilizers ensuring stability.

Addressing a press briefing, Additional Secretary Maninder Kaur Dwivedi announced a more than adequate stock of seeds and fertilizers for vital crops, including Paddy, Soybean, Groundnut, and Maize. The Ministry estimates a requirement of 166.46 lakh quintals of seeds for the season, with a current stock of over 185.74 lakh quintals.

While the government previously faced LPG shortages for drying hybrid maize seeds, coordinated efforts with the Ministry of Petroleum have resolved the issue. Additionally, agrochemical stocks are more than sufficient, and wholesale prices for essential crops remain stable. The Ministry remains vigilant about international influences but assures that domestic agriculture is secure.

(With inputs from agencies.)