Congress President Criticizes Government for Fuel and Fertilizer Supply Failures

Mallikarjun Kharge, the Congress President, has launched a strong critique against the Indian government, accusing it of failing to secure fuel and fertilizer supplies. He highlighted alarming declines in production and import diversification, with 14 Indian-flagged vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. Kharge pointed out the severe impact on farmers due to fertilizer shortages and criticized the government's lack of action in diversifying imports amidst geopolitical challenges. His remarks also included an indirect criticism of Prime Minister Modi's rhetoric about India being a 'Vishwaguru'. This article delves into the details of Kharge's accusations and the implications for India's agricultural sector.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 23, 2026, 15:19 IST

Congress Leader's Accusations Against the Government

Mallikarjun Kharge, the President of the Congress party, has accused the Indian government of failing to secure the nation's fuel and fertilizer supplies while diverting attention through the drama of delimitation. He pointed out that India's fuel production has decreased, efforts to diversify imports have stumbled, and 14 Indian-flagged vessels are stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. Kharge expressed on social media that the Modi administration is attempting to distract from its failures and serious allegations related to the Epstein files through these tactics, but the people of India have seen through this facade. He stated that the BJP has significantly failed in ensuring fuel and fertilizer security for the country.

Concerns Over Production and Import Diversification

Kharge further elaborated that there has been a decline in production, failed attempts at import diversification, and that Indian vessels are unable to find safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz. These ships have been stuck for 54 days. Due to the Modi government, India's crude oil production has been on a continuous decline for the 11th consecutive year, with a nearly 22% drop in total crude oil production since 2014-15. He also highlighted a significant 40% decrease in gas production, which fell from 47,555 million cubic centimeters (MMSCM) in 2011-12 to 28,672 MMSCM in 2020-21.

Fertilizer Shortages and Geopolitical Challenges

Regarding fertilizer stocks, Kharge noted that reports of fertilizer shortages have emerged even before the geopolitical turmoil, severely impacting Indian farmers due to the BJP's negligence. He mentioned that by March 2026, fertilizer production had dropped to a five-year low, marking a 24.6% decline compared to the previous year. He pointed out that China had imposed a ban on special fertilizers in July 2025, yet the Modi government did not take the initiative to diversify imports. Additionally, Russia has also halted fertilizer exports.

Indirect Criticism of PM Modi

Kharge indirectly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi by referencing Murli Manohar Joshi, a member of the guiding council, who recently suggested that India should cease its rhetoric of being a 'Vishwaguru' (world leader).