Ensure transparency in urea distribution, build farmers’ confidence, says official

Special Chief Secretary of the State Agriculture and Cooperation Department, Budithi Rajasekhar, on Thursday directed district administrations to ensure continuous, transparent, and proactive flow of information to farmers regarding the availability and distribution of urea through various media platforms. The initiative aims to build trust and confidence among the farming community, he added.

During a video conference with Joint Collectors, District Agriculture officers, and MARKFED district officers, Mr. Rajasekhar reviewed issues concerning urea supply and the procurement of pulses such as red gram and black gram by MARKFED. He expressed serious concern over adverse media reports allegedly highlighting irregularities in distribution, overpricing, and inadequate monitoring in some areas. He demanded explanations from officials on instances of uneven distribution, excessive pricing, insufficient inspections, and delays in corrective action.

Officials were instructed to provide mandal-wise and Rythu Seva Kendra-wise urea stock data along with proposed supplies for the next two weeks. Mr. Rajasekhar emphasised that agriculture staff must encourage judicious urea usage, discourage bulk purchasing and advance stocking, and promote organic and natural farming practices, including farmyard manure, compost, and green manure crops. He further stressed that inspections and monitoring should be continuous and proactive, with field-level officers ensuring proper utilisation on the ground.

Director of Agriculture, Manazir Jeelani Samoon, reinforced the importance of verifying that urea reached genuine farmers and was used for cultivation. He directed that district-wise stock details should be communicated via bulletins, SMS alerts, and press releases, and that deviations or diversions be promptly addressed.

Mr. Samoon also instructed dealers to display complete urea stock and price information, while strict action, including criminal cases, should be taken against those involved in overpricing, illegal diversion, or inter-State smuggling.

Joint Collectors from West Godavari, Guntur, Vizianagaram, and Bapatla confirmed ongoing efforts to keep farmers informed.