MADIKERI
Farmers should not be cheated while buying fertilizers, seeds, or pesticides, and all departments must work together to protect their interests, Deputy Commissioner S.J. Somashekhar said during a district-level task force committee meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office on Thursday.
The meeting reviewed steps to prevent the sale of fake and poor-quality agricultural products. The Deputy Commissioner said there have been complaints against unauthorized sellers who are misleading farmers by supplying substandard seeds and pesticides. He said such practices cause financial losses and reduce agricultural production. Officials were directed to create greater awareness about identifying genuine fertilizers and maintaining healthy soil through proper fertilizer use.
He instructed the Agriculture Department, Horticulture Department, Coffee Board, and Spice Board to educate farmers on suitable fertilizers for different crops. Officials were also asked to ensure there is no shortage of fertilizers anywhere in the district and to immediately report any supply-related issues to the district administration.
Joint Director of Agriculture B.S. Chandrashekhar said strict monitoring has been introduced to prevent the sale of fake agricultural inputs. Surprise inspections will continue at shops, warehouses, and transport vehicles across the district. Suspicious samples will be tested at quality control laboratories, and strict action will be taken against those violating the rules.
He also said Rs. 281.80 lakh has been released under the Prime Minister’s National Agriculture Development Scheme for micro-irrigation projects during 2026-27. The Deputy Commissioner advised that tube wells should be installed only where they are genuinely needed.
Officials said the crop survey for the monsoon season has reached 78.29 percent progress. Farmers were also encouraged to enrol in the crop insurance scheme implemented through IndusInd General Insurance Company. Awareness programmes, banners, posters, and farmers’ meetings will help explain insurance rules, premium payments, claims, and compensation.
Eligible farmers can apply through nationalized banks, Gram One centres, or Common Service Centres by submitting the required documents. Officials urged farmers to complete applications before the prescribed deadlines and make full use of the government schemes, ensuring better protection for crops, higher productivity, and stronger agricultural growth across Kodagu district.
