Fertilizer Regulation / Odisha Govt Intensifies Crackdown on Fertilizer Black-Marketing

Bhubaneswar, Sept 2: The Odisha government has intensified its zero-tolerance drive against fertilizer black-marketing and diversion during the ongoing Kharif 2026–27 season, assuring farmers of adequate supply across the State, officials said on Wednesday.

Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo said enforcement squads at district and block levels have been constituted to curb unfair practices such as hoarding, black-marketing and supply of substandard fertilizers. Inspection teams comprising senior officials from the Revenue, Agriculture and Police departments are conducting raids under the Fertilizer Control Order, 1985 and the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

Between April and August 2026, raids were conducted at 11,684 fertilizer shops statewide. Show-cause notices were issued to 2,774 individuals, sales by 321 dealers were suspended, licenses of 170 dealers were temporarily revoked, and 96 licenses were cancelled. Stocks of 12 erring dealers were seized, while criminal cases were registered against seven.

The scale of enforcement has risen sharply compared to last year, when 9,017 shops were raided and 53 licenses suspended or cancelled. Officials said the stronger crackdown has improved availability and affordability of fertilizers for farmers.

Recent raids include a joint operation at Maa Sabitri Agro Agency in Kandhamal’s Baliguda Sub-Division, where 700 bags of DAP fertilizer were seized, the shop’s license cancelled, and a criminal case filed. In Boudh district’s Manamunda Block, raids have continued for two days, with officials recording farmers’ statements to verify allegations of black-marketing.

Also Read: PMAY-U BANDHU: Phulbani Tailor’s Journey to Building Home with Dignity

Authorities emphasised that fertilizers are available at authorised selling points and urged farmers not to panic or fall prey to rumours. “Adequate stocks are in place, and farmers should purchase only from authorised shops at controlled prices,” officials said.

The government’s strict stance underscores its commitment to ensuring smooth supply during the Kharif season and protecting farmers from exploitation.