Farmers in Tamil Nadu are expressing concern over the recent sharp increase in prices of essential chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The surge in costs, observed over the past few weeks, is impacting preparations for the upcoming Aadi Pattam and Kuruvai cropping seasons. Key fertilizers like potash, super phosphate, factomfos, and ammonium sulfate have seen significant price hikes, creating financial strain for cultivators.
The spike in fertilizer prices is occurring at a critical juncture as farmers gear up for seasonal sowing activities in regions like the Cauvery delta. There are fears that the heightened input expenses could lead to financial hardships for many small-scale farmers, potentially pushing them into debt. Changes in the fertilizer subsidy mechanism have made farmers more susceptible to fluctuations in global markets, unlike the previous system that shielded them from international price variations.
Farmer groups are advocating for increased subsidy support to stabilize fertilizer prices, urging both the central and state governments to take action. They are calling for higher Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for agricultural produce and promoting farming techniques that reduce reliance on chemical inputs. Additionally, there is a push for sustainable farming practices, including training programs for farmers to produce cost-effective organic inputs and enhancing the skills of agricultural extension officers through institutions like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU).
Agriculture Department officials attribute the rise in fertilizer prices to global market conditions, acknowledging the challenges of direct price regulation. Efforts like the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ campaign are underway to raise awareness among farmers about organic alternatives and the importance of reducing chemical fertilizer usage. As the sowing season approaches, farmers emphasize the need for timely interventions to mitigate the impact of escalating cultivation costs on agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.
