TV
A shortage of fertiliser has deepened the worries of farmers in the Bhanjanagar sub-division of Ganjam, triggering growing frustration and unrest. Many farmers alleged receiving inadequate supplies, with scuffles breaking out in some areas and long queues forming at distribution centres.
According to reports, urea fertiliser is out of stock at several cooperative society centres. With paddy crops now at the critical earhead formation stage, farmers say the shortage is severely impacting cultivation. Only 9 metric tonnes of fertiliser have reportedly reached the district, a quantity farmers allege is grossly insufficient to meet demand.
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Supply Fails to Meet Demand
Several blocks under Bhanjanagar had last received urea fertiliser nearly a month ago. However, the quantity supplied to the local administration was inadequate, preventing many farmers from purchasing it at government-run Seba Samabaya Samiti Kendras. With thousands of farmers in each block, the demand could not be met, and the shortage caused serious problems for cultivators.
Tension at Distribution Centres
Farmers allegedly fought both among themselves and with officials at the cooperative centres. Officials, under pressure, were forced to sell whatever limited stock they had. During the distribution, farmers physically assaulted each other and the staff, prompting officials to inform the police. Police personnel arrived on the spot and brought the situation under control, after which sales continued under their supervision.
Soaring Black Market Prices
Reports indicate that this period is crucial for fertiliser application to ensure healthy paddy growth, and any delay could lead to a sharp drop in yields. With official supplies running short, farmers are being forced to purchase fertiliser from the black market at Rs 700–Rs 800 per bag, far above the government rate of Rs 270.
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Several areas in Bhanjanagar have reportedly received no supply at all, intensifying frustration among cultivators.
Official sources reveal that only 9 metric tonnes of fertiliser have reached the district this year, a steep decline from 27 metric tonnes last year, leading to the ongoing crisis.
