Punjab BJP urges centre to ensure uninterrupted DAP, urea supply
Chandigarh, June 11
Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon has written a letter to Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers J.P. Nadda, urging him to ensure an uninterrupted and timely supply of DAP and urea during the paddy sowing season in the state.
In the letter, Dhillon mentioned that the issue was discussed in detail during his meeting with the Union Minister on June 6. With the paddy sowing season now fully underway across Punjab, he requested that the supply of these crucial fertilisers be further enhanced to meet rising demand.
Dhillon said the Central government is already aware of the seriousness of the issue and has been supplying fertilisers as required. However, he drew the minister's attention to the fact that fertiliser demand in Punjab peaks in June and July. Any shortage during this critical period forces farmers to stand in long queues outside cooperative societies and fertiliser outlets.
"Such delays can disrupt sowing operations, adversely affecting crop yields and ultimately impacting the nation's food security," the letter stated.
He further pointed out that fertiliser shortages often encourage hoarding and black marketing by unscrupulous elements. As a result, farmers are compelled to purchase fertilisers at higher prices.
To address these challenges, Dhillon sought the immediate release of an additional DAP quota for Punjab. He also requested that a buffer stock of two to three lakh metric tons be maintained in the state well before demand peaks.
Additionally, he urged the ministry to prepare and share a monthly urea supply schedule with the Punjab government to ensure smooth and efficient distribution.
He also called for the establishment of a real-time joint monitoring mechanism involving the Union Ministry, fertiliser companies such as IFFCO and NFL, and the state government to prevent any artificial shortage of fertilisers.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Appreciate that BJP is now focusing on farmers' needs. But honestly, this should have been done before June. Every year same story – we keep waiting for fertiliser while paddy sowing window closes. Need better planning, not just letters. 😔
Good move by Dhillon ji. The buffer stock idea is excellent – 2-3 lakh metric tons would save us from last-minute panic. Farmers shouldn't have to run from shop to shop for DAP when Centre claims to be pro-kisan. 🙏
I work in a fertiliser cooperative in Patiala. The demand this year is unprecedented. Real-time monitoring is a must – hoarders make it worse. Let's hope the ministry listens this time and doesn't brush it under the carpet. 👨🌾
While this is necessary, I wish we also discussed reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers. Punjab's soil is already exhausted. Organic alternatives and proper rotation could help long-term. But I know that's a tough sell in peak season! 🌱
BJP in Punjab needs to walk the talk. They criticise AAP but when they govern, same issues remain. Farmers want action, not just letters. Hope this time real relief reaches our fields. DAP ki supply abhi badhao! 🇮🇳
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