Govt Steps Up Kharif Preparedness Amid Iran Crisis; Shivraj Orders Tight Supply Monitoring

Amid the ongoing Middle East crisis and rising global uncertainty, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan chaired a high-level review to ensure preparedness for the upcoming Kharif season, directing officials to maintain seamless fertilizer supply, curb black marketing, expedite Farmer IDs, and enhance real-time monitoring through a dedicated special cell.

During the meeting, the Union Agriculture Minister gave instructions to the senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, stating that they must play a proactive role during times of crisis.

Fertilizer supply and Farmer ID

The Union Agriculture Minister emphasized the need to ensure an equitable and uninterrupted supply of fertilizers. He directed officials to expedite the work on 'Farmer IDs' to make the distribution system transparent. He further stated that he would soon hold a meeting with the Chief Ministers and Agriculture Ministers of various states for this purpose.

Cracking Down on Black Marketing and Hoarding

Instructions have been issued to take strict action against those engaging in the black marketing of fertilizers and seeds by taking advantage of the global crisis. Chouhan stated that state governments will also be encouraged to take stringent measures in this direction.

Seed production and packaging assistance

The meeting reviewed the availability of agro-chemicals and the essential gases required for Drying Seed. Chouhan emphasized that there should be no shortage of packaging materials, particularly for milk and other agricultural products, amidst the global crisis. To ensure this, he also issued directives to coordinate with the Ministry of Petroleum and other relevant departments.

Formation of a Special Cell

A 'Special Cell' has been established for the round-the-clock monitoring of the agricultural sector. This cell will submit a weekly report to the Union Agriculture Minister regarding the availability of fertilizers, seeds and pesticides.