- Centre orders crackdown on fake fertilizers across states.
- States told to monitor supply, stop forced tagging, act legally.
- Farmers to help spot and report counterfeit products.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 14th July: In a decisive move to curb the menace of fake and substandard fertilizers, Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has written to the Chief Ministers of all States and Union Territories, urging them to launch a comprehensive campaign against the black marketing and adulteration of fertilizers.
In his letter, the Minister called for immediate and strict action against those indulging in counterfeit sales, substandard inputs, and forced tagging of nano-fertilizers or bio-stimulants, which are increasingly affecting farmers’ livelihoods and crop yields.
Agriculture: The Backbone of the Economy
Shri Chouhan emphasized that agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy, and to protect the interests of farmers, it is imperative to ensure the timely availability of high-quality fertilizers at affordable prices. He also pointed out that the sale of fake or substandard fertilizers is a punishable offence under the Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, governed by the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
Directives Issued to States:
- Crackdown on Black Marketing:
States must monitor the availability and pricing of fertilizers and take action against overpricing, black marketing, and diversion of subsidized fertilizers. - Stop Forced Tagging Practices:
The practice of forcing dealers to tag nano-fertilizers or bio-stimulants with traditional fertilizers should be halted immediately. - Tight Surveillance and Sampling:
Regular sampling, testing, and inspections should be carried out to detect and eliminate counterfeit products from the market. - Strict Legal Action:
Offenders should face cancellation of licenses, FIRs, and prosecution, with the goal of ensuring convictions. - Farmer Engagement and Awareness:
States have been advised to develop feedback systems and involve farmers and farmer groups in monitoring fertilizer quality. Awareness campaigns to help farmers identify fake products are also recommended.
The Union Minister stressed that only a proactive, state-driven campaign can root out the issue of adulterated and fraudulent inputs. “Regular monitoring at the state level is essential for sustainable solutions that safeguard farmer interests,” he added.
