A delegation of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leaders met Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati today, submitting a memorandum demanding immediate intervention to address the acute fertiliser shortage plaguing farmers during the ongoing Kharif season.
The delegation highlighted the rampant black-marketing, mismanagement in distribution, and the state government’s inaction, which they claim threatens Odisha’s agricultural backbone and food security.
The memorandum detailed the struggles of farmers forced to wait in long queues for hours, often returning empty-handed due to inadequate fertiliser supply. Despite the state government’s claims of sufficient stock, subsidized fertilizers are being sold illegally at exorbitant prices of ₹800–₹1,000 per 45 kg bag, far above the government-fixed rate of ₹242. The BJD accused agencies like MARKFED of diverting subsidised fertilisers and demanded stringent measures to curb hoarding and corruption.
The delegation referenced a recent letter by former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik to the Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers, calling for urgent central intervention to resolve the crisis. The BJD urged the Governor to ensure timely and adequate fertilizer supply, enforce strict action against black-marketing, and hold distribution agencies accountable to deliver fertilizers at approved rates.
“Odisha’s agriculture, a key contributor to the national Public Distribution System, is under severe threat due to the state government’s failure to act,” the memorandum stated. The BJD warned that the crisis risks undoing the hard-won gains of Odisha’s farmers and jeopardizing the state’s food security.
The Governor assured the delegation that he would review the matter and take appropriate steps to address the concerns raised. The BJD emphasised that swift action is critical to protect farmers’ livelihoods and ensure the success of the Kharif season.
