India Builds Fertilizer Buffer Stock of 18 Million Tonnes, Secures Imports from Multiple Nations

The central government has stated that sufficient urea and DAP fertilizers are available in the country for the forthcoming Kharif season. It has pointed out that a 45-kg bag of urea fertilizer is priced at ₹266, and a 50-kg bag of DAP fertilizer is priced at ₹1,350. The tensions in West Asia have increased fertilizer and raw material prices in the world market.

According to officials, rising costs of essential raw materials such as ammonia, sulfur, and sulfuric acid, and disruptions in gas supply, led to a temporary decline in urea production in the country. Initially, production dropped to around 30,000 to 35,000 tonnes per day, but the situation is now gradually improving. Gas supply has increased to around 80%, which is expected to improve production.

According to government data, the country's total fertilizer stock currently stands at around 18 million metric tonnes, significantly higher than last year's 14.7 million tonnes. Total demand for the upcoming Kharif season is estimated at 39 million tonnes, compared to last year's sales of 36.1 million tonnes. To maintain supply, the government is developing alternative sources from countries such as Russia, Morocco, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Jordan, Canada, Algeria, Egypt, and Togo to reduce dependence on imports.

The government has given an important update regarding the availability of fertilizers. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has said that there is an adequate availability of fertilizers in the country for summer crops, and in addition to that, the government is procuring them from other Amar Ujala sources. This step comes at a time of uncertainty in the global market and disruption to supply chains. The government's focus is to ensure that farmers receive adequate fertilizers in a timely manner, ensuring crop production is not affected and the agricultural sector maintains its momentum.