The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has directed officials to ensure that only 600 registered and certified bio-stimulants are sold in the market, amid concerns over the alleged sale of fake and spurious products to farmers.
On 16 July, Chouhan had expressed strong concerns regarding the unregulated sale of ‘fake’ and ‘spurious’ bio-stimulants to farmers across the country.
Bio-stimulants are substances, microorganisms, or a combination of both that enhance plant growth, health, and productivity by stimulating natural processes within the plant, regardless of the presence of essential nutrients. This process can lead to higher yields and improved crop quality.
Chouhan urged state governments to take strict action against the sale of fake fertilisers, urea, and uncertified bio-stimulants.
“Around 30,000 bio-stimulant products were being sold earlier, many without proper certification,” said Chouhan. “So far, only 600 bio-stimulants have been certified and allowed to be sold,” he added.
The government has also issued notifications related to all certified bio-stimulants. Chouhan directed officials to ensure that only these certified products reach farmers, and stressed that forcing farmers to purchase other products along with fertilisers is wrong and strict action should be taken against it.
In a high-level meeting in Delhi, attended by various state agriculture ministers, Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi, Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research Dr M.L. Jat, along with senior officials and scientists from several states, Chouhan announced that another round of the ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ for the Rabi crop will begin on 3 October.
He also instructed officials to prepare the outline for a five-year agricultural action plan by incorporating suggestions from progressive farmers, experts, and other stakeholders.
On the issue of high demand and inadequate supply of urea, Chouhan stated two reasons behind it.
“There could be two main reasons for the increased demand for urea: first, an increase in the sowing of rice, maize, and other crops due to good rainfall; second, possible misuse of urea for non-agricultural purposes,” remarked Chouhan.
He further said that if the demand is genuinely for farming needs, urea will certainly be supplied, and the ministry is working promptly on this.
On the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Chouhan emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring complete transparency in its implementation.
“Compensation is being directly transferred to farmers’ accounts through digital payment. If any insurance company or state government delays claim settlement, an additional 12% interest will have to be paid directly to farmers’ accounts,” said Chouhan.