Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 8: The Centre has assured farmers that fertiliser availability remains sufficient for the ongoing Kharif season, stating that the country's stock levels are well above normal requirements despite disruptions in global supply chains caused by tensions in West Asia.
According to an update issued by the Ministry of Fertilisers on Monday, India currently holds fertiliser stocks of approximately 197.56 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) against the reassessed Kharif 2026 requirement of 383.9 LMT. This represents more than 51 per cent of the seasonal requirement, significantly higher than the usual stock position of around one-third of annual demand maintained during this period.
The ministry attributed the comfortable stock situation to advance procurement, improved planning and efficient logistics management undertaken over the past several months.
Officials noted that farmers have already purchased 86.65 LMT of chemical fertilisers during the current Kharif season up to June 7, accounting for nearly 23 per cent of the total projected requirement.
The ministry also highlighted a notable rise in the use of organic manure across several states. Since the onset of the West Asia conflict earlier this year, farmers have procured around 11.17 LMT of organic manure, compared to 3.20 LMT during the corresponding period last year.
Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra recorded the highest uptake of organic nutrient sources. Officials said the increase reflects a gradual shift among farmers towards integrating organic alternatives into their nutrient management practices.
To ensure uninterrupted supply, India has continued to strengthen both domestic production and imports. Since the beginning of the West Asia crisis, approximately 147.40 LMT of fertilisers have been added to national availability through a combination of imports and indigenous manufacturing.
The ministry further stated that more than 25 LMT of imported urea, diammonium phosphate (DAP) and complex fertilisers are expected to arrive at Indian ports during June. In addition, a fresh global tender has been floated for the procurement of 17 LMT of urea to further bolster supplies.
Officials said the Department of Fertilisers is closely monitoring the availability of key raw materials and production inputs required for manufacturing both urea and phosphatic and potassic fertilisers.
The government also indicated that subsidy payments to fertiliser companies are being processed regularly, with outstanding claims being cleared on a weekly basis. Adequate budgetary provisions have been made to ensure the timely release of subsidy support and maintain smooth supply operations.
Reiterating its confidence in the country's preparedness, the ministry stated that India's fertiliser security remains stable and well-managed, with availability continuing to exceed projected demand across major fertiliser categories.
The assurance comes at a crucial time as farmers across the country intensify sowing activities for the Kharif season, making uninterrupted access to fertilisers essential for agricultural productivity and food security.