SRINAGAR: The Union government has issued 12,814 show-cause notices to fertilizer dealers in the last seven months as part of a nationwide drive against black marketing, hoarding, and quality violations, Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister J.P. Nadda informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.
The Minister said more than 5,000 show-cause notices and over 3,000 licences have been cancelled specifically for black marketing of fertilizers. In addition, 687 notices and 202 licences were cancelled for hoarding of fertilizer, he added.
Replying to a question on fertilizer shortages, Nadda stated that the Centre has ensured timely delivery of fertilizers across the country. However, he noted that hoarding by dealers remains a challenge, which the States must address. He confirmed that 67 lakh metric tonnes of fertilizer are currently in stock, with an additional 24 lakh metric tonnes expected in the coming month.
The Minister said the government is monitoring fertilizer requirements through the Integrated Fertilizer Monitoring System, a transparent and real-time mechanism. He urged State governments to maintain direct contact with manufacturers, producers, and exporters to ensure availability and to place orders on time for smooth distribution during the agricultural season.
Regarding diversion, hoarding, and overpricing, Nadda emphasised that States have the authority to take action against the distribution of sub-standard products.
