Fertilizer shortage sparks protests across Madhya Pradesh

A severe fertilizer shortage in Madhya Pradesh has led to protests and unrest among farmers. With ongoing black marketing of DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) and urea fertilizers, an FIR has been registered against a Bhopal shopkeeper. Farmers in Bhopal, Tikamgarh, and Sagar are protesting the lack of essential fertilizers. In response, the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh plans to submit a memorandum to district collectors across the state on Monday.

Farmers face fertilizer shortage crisis

Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) President Sarvagya G. Dewan expressed concern over the current fertilizer shortage during the Rabi crop sowing season. Dewan stated, "Farmers can't access DAP and urea, essential for their crops. Black marketing is forcing farmers to buy fertilizers at inflated prices. We urged the government to address this issue two days ago, but no improvement. We will submit a memorandum to the district collectors, addressed to the Chief Minister, demanding immediate action."

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The demand for DAP has surged after good monsoon rains, as Madhya Pradesh farmers began sowing wheat, gram, and other Rabi crops. However, due to shortages, many farmers must buy fertilizers from private sellers at high prices. In Bhopal's Berasia area, DAP fertilizer, typically priced at ₹1,350 per bag, was sold for ₹1,850, and urea bags costing ₹267 were sold for ₹340. Following an investigation by SDM Ashutosh Sharma, the Gaur Krishi Seva Kendra shop and warehouse were sealed under the Fertilizer Control Order 1985 and the Essential Commodities Act 1955.

In response to black marketing allegations, Berasia authorities, including SDM Ashutosh Sharma and Tehsildar Karuna Dandotia, raided and sealed the implicated godown and shop. DAP fertilizer distribution has begun under police supervision at Bhopal's Berasia Krishi Upaj Mandi, with farmers receiving five bags each through a token system.

Farmers protest severe fertilizer shortage

The fertilizer shortage has sparked unrest in multiple regions. In Berasia Mandi, Bhopal, farmers created a commotion three days ago due to the non-availability of fertilizers, prompting intervention by the SDM and local police to restore calm. A similar incident occurred in Tikamgarh district, where a scuffle broke out at a fertilizer distribution center. There was a commotion among the farmers after Neha Lodhi, a farmer, allegedly suffered an assault by a female constable.

In Sagar's Banda area, former Congress MLA Tarwar Singh Lodhi led a protest with farmers, staging a sit-in at the local Mandi. The protest lasted 18 days, demanding an adequate supply of fertilizers for farmers.

The Bharatiya Kisan Sangh plans to submit memorandums to district collectors in Madhya Pradesh, urging the Chief Minister to address the escalating fertilizer shortage. The protests highlight the need for the state government to ensure a sufficient fertilizer supply to prevent further unrest among farmers.

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