Rajasthan govt in action mode against spurious fertilizers, seized 11000 bags of fertilizer

As part of its action against hoarding and spurious fertilizer, Rajasthan government officials have seized over 11,000 bags of fertilizer in the raids conducted across the state. The government also issued show-cause notices to more than 500 input dealers and shopkeepers for black marketing and hoarding of fertilizer. In a raid on October 12 in the Deeg district 11,245 bags of fertilizers, including DAP, Urea, Super Phosphate, and Zinc Sulfate, were confiscated from seven illegal warehouses belonging to Bansal Khaad Beej Bhandar Sikri. This action was carried out under the Fertilizer Control Order of 1985. The above details are from a press release issued by the Department of Agriculture, Rajasthan.

The agriculture department seized 314 bags of fake fertilizer in Alwar (Source: Department of Agriculture, Rajasthan)

As per the department release, in a separate raid in Alwar district’s Jhadol village on October 8, authorities seized 84 bags of fake DAP (IFFCO brand) and 230 unbranded fertilizer bags from a residence. Samples have been sent for testing, and legal action is being taken under the Fertilizer Control Order of 1985 and the Essential Commodities Act of 1955.

On October 10, a one-day inspection campaign led to 997 inspections across the state. During this, 506 shopkeepers received notices, sales were banned for 49, and the licenses of 10 shopkeepers were suspended for irregularities.

Agriculture department officials inspecting shops under a special campaign (Source: Department of Agriculture, Rajasthan)

The Agriculture Department has urged farmers to avoid purchasing uncertified fertilizers and report suspicious activities. They conduct regular quality control campaigns to ensure agricultural inputs are of the highest standard before sowing seasons. Strict actions, including license suspension and product seizures, will be taken against those involved in malpractice.