Gadag
Farmers in Gadag district have raised serious complaints that fertilizer shops are selling government subsidized urea and DAP at higher prices and forcing them to buy other agricultural products along with them.
The Agriculture Department has ordered all wholesalers and retailers to immediately stop linking fertilizer sales with bio fertilizers, micronutrients or pesticides and allow farmers to purchase only what they need based on crop requirements.
Officials said that all sales must be done through PoS machines with proper bills, daily stock and price display boards, and wholesalers must submit supply details while inspections will be conducted and strict action including cancellation of licence will be taken against violators.
Department officials have also warned that any dealer found creating artificial shortage, overcharging farmers or refusing to sell fertilizers without compulsory purchase of other products will face immediate suspension of licence under the Fertilizers Control Order and Essential Commodities Act.
Officials reiterated that subsidized fertilizers are meant to support farmers and should not be misused by traders for profit. They urged strict compliance and said surprise inspections will continue across the district to protect farmers’ interests.
Farmers are encouraged to report any violation of these rules to the local agriculture office or vigilance team so that timely action can be taken against erring fertilizer sellers in the district ensuring fair access for all farming communities.