Odisha Government Takes Action Against Fertilizer Hoarding Amid Global Shortages

The Odisha government is taking significant steps to address the fertilizer shortage caused by global geopolitical issues. District collectors have been instructed to combat black marketing and hoarding, ensuring farmers receive adequate supplies for the Kharif 2026 season. With a focus on monitoring stock usage and implementing proactive measures, the government aims to maintain a steady distribution of fertilizers. Farmers are encouraged to use ammonium sulfate as an alternative to urea to enhance crop yields. Read on to discover more about the state's comprehensive strategy to support its agricultural community.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 7, 2026, 21:18 IST

Government Response to Fertilizer Shortage

Bhubaneswar: In light of a reported shortage of specific fertilizers linked to the ongoing global geopolitical tensions, the Odisha government has instructed district collectors to take decisive measures against traders engaged in black marketing and hoarding, officials announced on Friday.

The State Cooperation Department has mandated that collectors closely monitor fertilizer stock usage to prevent hoarding, black market activities, and any illegal cross-border movements.

Officials reassured farmers that there is no need for alarm, as the government has implemented several proactive strategies to guarantee a steady supply and fair distribution of fertilizers for the Kharif 2026 season.

With the Centre's allocation of various fertilizer grades, sufficient stock has been arranged at Markfed, Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), Large-sized Adivasi Multipurpose Cooperative Societies (LAMPCS), and authorized retail outlets to satisfy the total demand from farmers.

To enhance logistics, a detailed monthly supply plan has been developed in collaboration with central authorities, manufacturers, and local stakeholders.

Moreover, manufacturers and Markfed have been directed to adjust allocations based on real-time demand and stock levels at grassroots credit societies.

In alignment with the state's commitment to providing high-quality fertilizers at regulated government prices, specialized enforcement teams consisting of agriculture, revenue, and police personnel have been deployed at both district and block levels.

These teams are actively conducting surprise inspections at retail and wholesale locations to detect and prevent illegal activities.

Recently, to balance the supply and demand for urea and DAP during the current cropping season, the Agriculture Department has suggested an alternative fertilizer.

The department has urged all district collectors to encourage farmers to utilize ammonium sulfate as a substitute for urea, which contains 20.5% nitrogen and 23% sulfur, thereby enhancing yield and addressing sulfur deficiencies in the soil.