No fertilizer shortage in Andhra Pradesh: Atchannaidu

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu has assured farmers that there will be no shortage of fertilizers during the Kharif 2026 season, while warning dealers and fertilizer companies against any malpractice in supply and distribution. Chairing a review meeting at the Secretariat on Monday, the minister made it clear that the government would adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards fertilizer irregularities and farmer exploitation.

The meeting was attended by senior agriculture department officials, representatives of fertilizer manufacturing companies, and dealer associations. Reviewing the availability and distribution of fertilizers across the state, the minister stated that Andhra Pradesh currently has adequate stocks, with reserves exceeding seasonal requirements. He particularly stressed the need to ensure uninterrupted availability of urea and directed officials and companies to maintain close coordination.

Atchannaidu strongly objected to the practice of forcing farmers to purchase complex fertilizers while buying urea or DAP. He warned that dealers engaging in such practices would face criminal prosecution, while action would also be taken against companies found encouraging such violations. The minister reiterated that farmers should be allowed to purchase only the fertilizers they require without any coercion.

The minister also cautioned dealers against selling fertilizers above the Maximum Retail Price (MRP), describing such practices as illegal. Special vigilance teams will be deployed across the state to prevent diversion of urea and monitor fertilizer movement. A robust tracking system is being introduced to ensure accountability for every fertilizer bag supplied and sold.

Recognizing challenges faced by tenant farmers and those without Android phones, Atchannaidu instructed officials to create alternative mechanisms for fertilizer booking and distribution. The government will also address issues such as delayed OTPs and technical glitches in the fertilizer booking application to ensure hassle-free access for farmers.

In a separate initiative, the minister launched a special farmer awareness publication titled “Let Us Face El Nino Effectively”, aimed at helping farmers prepare for possible climate-related challenges. He said the government has developed a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the impact of El Nino through scientific farming practices, crop planning, water management, and climate-resilient agricultural techniques.

The publication contains region-specific recommendations on crop selection, alternative cropping patterns, soil moisture conservation, irrigation management, and weather-based advisories. Atchannaidu emphasized that departments including horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, sericulture, and cooperatives are working together to support farmers during adverse weather conditions.

The minister also called for greater awareness on the benefits of nano urea and encouraged farmers to adopt natural farming practices. He noted that excessive use of chemical fertilizers can adversely affect soil health and urged farmers to focus on balanced nutrient management.