Andhra Pradesh intensifies fertiliser crackdown; 80 dealer licences suspended, one cancelled

The Andhra Pradesh government has intensified its crackdown on fertiliser irregularities across the State, warning of stringent action against dealers and middlemen involved in diversion, black marketing, illegal stocking and transportation of fertilisers meant for farmers.

Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu on Wednesday (May 20, 2026) said the government was taking a serious view of attempts to divert fertilisers for non-agricultural purposes or create artificial shortages affecting farmers. He warned that the licences of dealers found guilty would be cancelled immediately and criminal cases registered against them.

Addressing the issue, the Minister said the government would not tolerate illegal storage, diversion of fertilisers to industries or other States, or sale at inflated prices. He directed Agriculture Commissioner Manjeer Jilani to conduct special inspections at dealerships, warehouses and transport hubs across the State.

The Minister said that from May 4 to date, the Agriculture Department’s enforcement wing had issued 182 show-cause notices to fertiliser dealers for violations. Authorities suspended 80 fertiliser licences and cancelled one. One case was registered under Section 6-A, while 3,372 tonnes of fertilisers worth ₹7.07 crore were detained. Two tonnes of fertilisers valued at ₹5 lakh were also seized.

Mr. Atchannaidu also warned Agriculture Department officials against negligence in monitoring fertiliser distribution. He said inquiries would be conducted against officials if repeated violations or irregularities were reported within their jurisdiction. District Joint Directors were empowered to suspend officials immediately if necessary.

The Minister instructed officials to undertake daily monitoring of district-wise stocks to ensure timely availability of quality fertilisers to farmers. He added that vigilance surveillance and special enforcement operations were being strengthened further to curb illegal transportation and black marketing.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting farmers’ interests, the Minister said the State administration remained fully alert to prevent any inconvenience to farmers during the agricultural season.