Odisha CM holds high-level review meeting amid worsening fertiliser crisis

With fertiliser shortage intensifying across Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi convened a high-level review meeting on Thursday to assess the crisis and formulate an immediate action plan.

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The key meeting, held under the CM’s chairmanship, was attended by Deputy CM Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra, and several other Cabinet Ministers.

Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja and senior bureaucrats were also present, while District Collectors joined via video conferencing.

The review was prompted by rising reports of urea and fertiliser scarcity in multiple districts, causing anxiety among farmers ahead of the crucial Rabi crop season.

The State government is now working on ensuring a smoother distribution, curbing alleged black marketing, and coordinating with central agencies for stock replenishment.

Chief Minister Majhi has instructed officials to act with urgency and transparency, assuring that no farmer will be left unsupported due to logistical delays or supply issues.

More concrete steps are expected to be announced in the coming days as the State works to stabilise the agri-input supply chain.

“It was found that there is no shortage of fertiliser in the State. Instructions have been given to provide fertiliser to all the districts as per their requirements. Fertiliser is being supplied from storage points to respective districts,” the Deputy CM said.

“Raids were carried out and actions were taken against the wrongdoers at different places from where reports of black marketing have been received,” the Deputy CM stated.

“Fertiliser will be required for about 8-10 days,” Deputy CM Singh Deo expressed.

“Due to better rainfall during this monsoon season, as compared to the previous year, there was much more demand for fertiliser in the State. Accordingly, we have procured fertiliser from the Centre and are providing it to the farmers,” the Deputy CM added.