The Karnataka Agriculture Department is taking steps to ensure ample fertiliser availability and management for the upcoming monsoon season amidst concerns over Middle East instability. Agriculture Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy is overseeing the implementation of these measures. The department is responding to potential disruptions in fertiliser production due to the geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
To address the issue, the Centre has allocated 30.05 lakh metric tonnes of fertilisers to Karnataka, with 11.42 lakh metric tonnes currently in stock as of April 1. The state has bolstered its buffer stock mechanism through the Karnataka State Cooperative Marketing Federation (KSCMF) and the Karnataka State Seeds Corporation (KSSC) to enhance preparedness.
Authorities have recalibrated district-wise fertiliser allocation based on the average consumption over the past three years. Micro-level planning at the taluk and hobli levels is being undertaken to ensure even distribution and prevent shortages. The department has also introduced a Urea Distribution App based on the FRUITS database to regulate urea usage, with plans to expand its implementation state-wide during the monsoon season.
Special committees at state and district levels have been formed to monitor the misuse of subsidised urea for non-agricultural purposes. Stringent actions will be taken against violations under the Fertiliser Control Order (FCO), 1985, and the Essential Commodities Act (ECA), 1985. The government is also promoting balanced fertiliser use and organic farming practices to ensure adequate fertiliser supply during the monsoon season.
