Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Directs States to Act Against Fertilizer Hoarding and Black Marketing

Key Points

• Virtual meeting held with state agriculture ministers to review farmer ID, fertilizer availability, and agricultural schemes
• Minister directed strict action against hoarding and black marketing of fertilizers
• Farmer ID emphasized as key to connecting farmers with land, crops, livestock, and fisheries
• States instructed to ensure fair prices, transparent procurement, and effective distribution

Full Details

Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan conducted a virtual meeting with agriculture ministers from all states to review the progress of farmer ID implementation, fertilizer availability, and various agricultural schemes. During the meeting, the Minister emphasized that farmer ID serves as an important medium to connect farmers with their land, crops, livestock, and fisheries. Chouhan directed states to act strictly against hoarding and black marketing of fertilizers, which has been a persistent issue affecting farmers' access to essential agricultural inputs. The Minister stated that ensuring fair prices for farmers, maintaining a transparent procurement system, and implementing an effective distribution mechanism are the primary responsibilities of the states. This meeting comes amid concerns about fertilizer shortages in various parts of the country during the Rabi season.