NEW DELHI, 29 April 2020: India’s chemicals and fertilizer ministry has sold a whopping 2.64 million tonnes to farmers and traders during the lockdown period from 1-22 April 2020.
During the period, point of sale (POS) has recorded an increase of 32% at 1.06 million tonnes in fertilizer sale directly to famers, as compared to 0.82 million tonnes sold during the same period last year.
Fertilizers dealers too purchased over 46% more, which was recorded at 1.57 million tonnes, as compared to 1.07 million tonnes sold during the 21 day period last year.
The ministry in a statement said, “Despite lot of movement restrictions due to National level COVID-19 lockdown, with the concerted efforts of Department of Fertilizers, Railways, States and Ports, production and supply of fertilizers in the country is going on without hindrance.”
This is in line with the commitment made by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers to ensure availability of fertilizers to farmers for the upcoming Kharif season.
Speaking on this development, Indian minister of chemicals and fertilizers, D V Sadananda Gowda has said, there is no problem of fertilizers. State Government have sufficient stock of the fertilizers.
He said, we are in touch with state agriculture ministers and his ministry is committed to ensure availability of fertilizers to the farmer community before sowing time.
On 17 April, 41 fertilizer rakes moved from plants & ports. This is the highest movement of fertilizers during lockdown period in a day. One rake carries 3000 metric tonnes of load at a time production in fertilizer companies is going on in full capacity.
Government of India, Under Essential Commodities Act has allowed operation of Fertilizers plants in the country so that agriculture sector may not feel the heat of lockdown.
As loading and unloading of fertilizers are in full swing at fertilizer plants, railway stations and ports, no compromise is made with precautions to avoid COVID-19. Masks and all other preventive equipments are provided to labours and all other working staff, the statement added.
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