New Delhi, March 27
India has adequate fertiliser reserves and farmers need not worry despite concerns over supply disruptions linked to the war in West Asia, Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister J P Nadda has told parliament.
Responding to questions in the Lok Sabha on Friday, Nadda said the government had taken steps to ensure fertilisers remain available whenever needed and that there was “no need to panic”.
“I want to assure the citizens of the country the government has taken steps to ensure that fertiliser is available to farmers whenever required. We have sufficient reserves in place. There is no need to panic,” he said.
The minister said he had spoken to state agriculture ministers on Thursday to brief them on fertiliser availability.
The assurance came amid rising concern over possible disruptions to imports caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia and shipping uncertainties in the region.
India is one of the world’s major importers of fertilisers, and the conflict has heightened fears over supply chains ahead of the crucial kharif sowing season.
Replying to a supplementary question from Congress MP Manish Tewari on whether the government was exploring alternative import sources, Nadda said there were sufficient reserves for the kharif season.
He added that the government was also working to diversify supplies and identify new markets for both fertiliser imports and raw materials.
“We are also looking for diversification, new markets, newer areas, wherefrom we will get raw materials also for fertilisers. We have framed up our strategy to ensure fertiliser availability,” Nadda said.
With PTI Inputs
