**Uttar Pradesh Ensures Steady Supply of Fertilizers for Kharif Season**
Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi has assured farmers that there is no shortage of urea or other fertilizers in the state, promising an uninterrupted supply for the ongoing kharif season. This statement comes in response to reports indicating fertilizer shortages in various districts. The state government has urged both farmers and dealers to refrain from unnecessary hoarding, emphasizing that adequate fertilizer stocks are available.
During a press conference in Lucknow, Shahi highlighted that farmers in Uttar Pradesh have purchased and utilized 32.07 lakh metric tonnes of urea as of August 19, compared to 27.86 lakh metric tonnes during the same timeframe last year. “This indicates an increase of 4.21 lakh metric tonnes of urea available to farmers this year,” he noted.
The minister reported that since April 1, 2025, Uttar Pradesh has had a total availability of 37.97 lakh metric tonnes of urea, with 6 lakh metric tonnes still accessible for purchase across districts. Approximately 1.52 crore farmers have procured urea through POS machines using biometric authentication.
Addressing concerns about irregularities, Shahi mentioned that investigations are underway in Maharajganj and Siddharthnagar districts, where some individuals have reportedly purchased more than one metric tonne of urea multiple times, raising suspicions of hoarding. He warned that strict action would be taken against black marketing and diversion of fertilizers.
To prevent fertilizer smuggling, local administrations in border districts have been instructed to enhance surveillance. In addition to urea, farmers currently have access to 3.87 lakh MT of DAP, 3 lakh MT of NPK, 2.51 lakh MT of SSP, and 0.63 lakh MT of MOP, bringing the total stock of chemical fertilizers in the state to 15.91 lakh MT. Both cooperative and private sectors are actively involved in ensuring smooth distribution.
Shahi emphasized the coordinated efforts of the Centre and the state government to maintain daily supply. Currently, 24 rakes of urea and 12 rakes of DAP are in transit, expected to reach their destinations within the next 3-4 days. On average, Uttar Pradesh receives 10-12 rakes of urea and 5-6 rakes of DAP daily.
Taking a firm stance against malpractice, the minister reported that 12,653 raids have been conducted statewide, resulting in the collection of 3,385 samples to test for fertilizer adulteration. Actions have been initiated against errant traders, with 1,047 retail sellers receiving notices, 571 licenses suspended, and 1,196 canceled. Additionally, 132 wholesale dealers have been served notices, with 13 licenses suspended and 4 canceled. Notices have also been issued to 53 fertilizer manufacturers, and 93 FIRs have been filed against those involved in black marketing, overpricing, and hoarding.
In conclusion, the Uttar Pradesh government is committed to ensuring that farmers have access to the necessary fertilizers for the kharif season, while also taking stringent measures to combat any malpractices in the distribution process.
**FAQ**
**Q: Is there a fertilizer shortage in Uttar Pradesh?**
A: No, the Uttar Pradesh government has confirmed that there is no shortage of fertilizers, including urea, and has assured farmers of a steady supply for the kharif season.
