‘Govt Not Helping Farmers Facing Shortage Of Essential Fertilisers’

On July 2, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed grave concerns regarding the plight of farmers in India, particularly highlighting the ongoing shortage of essential fertilizers such as DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) and urea. He attributed this crisis to the halt in supply of specialty fertilizers from China, which has played a significant role in Indian agriculture.

In a post shared on Facebook, Gandhi stated, “On one hand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is printing his photos on fertilizer bags, and on the other hand, farmers are becoming dependent on ‘Made in China’.” This statement underscores the irony of the government’s public relations efforts juxtaposed with the harsh realities faced by farmers who rely heavily on imported fertilizers.

Gandhi emphasized the critical role of agriculture in India, declaring, “India is an agriculture state, and farmers are the backbone of our economy.” However, he lamented that this backbone is “bending due to foreign dependency.” He pointed out that a staggering 80 percent of specialty fertilizers are imported from China, and with the recent cessation of supplies from that country, the situation has become dire.

“This is not the first time,” Gandhi remarked, referring to the recurring issues farmers face with fertilizer shortages. He noted that farmers across the nation are grappling with the lack of essential fertilizers like urea and DAP, and now the looming “Chinese crisis” regarding specialty fertilizers adds to their woes. His comments reflect a growing concern that the agricultural sector is increasingly vulnerable to external factors.

Gandhi criticized the government’s lack of foresight, stating, “Despite knowing that this supply can stop anytime, the government did not make any preparations.” He pointed out that when there was a pressing need to promote domestic production of fertilizers, the government failed to implement any effective policies or plans. This inaction, he argued, has left farmers in a precarious position, especially as they approach the critical sowing season for Kharif crops.

The Congress leader posed a crucial question to the government: “Will the farmer now be dependent on others even on his own soil?” This rhetorical inquiry highlights the frustration and desperation felt by farmers who are struggling to secure the necessary resources to sustain their livelihoods. He further elaborated on the emotional toll this situation has taken on farmers, stating, “Losing precious time and good crops, the farmer who is drowning in debt and despair, is asking, ‘With whom and whose development?’”

Gandhi’s remarks are not just a critique of the current administration but also a call to action for the government to prioritize the needs of farmers. He cited reports indicating that the shortage of DAP and urea is particularly acute in states like Rajasthan, where farmers are preparing for the Kharif sowing season. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as the lack of fertilizers directly impacts crop yields and, consequently, the livelihoods of millions of farmers.

Rahul Gandhi’s statements serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Indian agriculture today. His call for the government to take immediate action to support farmers and reduce dependency on foreign imports resonates with the broader concerns of food security and economic stability in the country. As the agricultural sector continues to grapple with these issues, the need for effective policies and domestic production capabilities has never been more critical.