Ludhiana, Punjab — Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has directed the Punjab Government to take immediate action to ensure that farmers are not compelled to purchase additional products such as nano urea or nano DAP along with subsidised fertilisers like urea and diammonium phosphate (DAP).
During his visit to Ludhiana on Tuesday, the Minister stated that several farmers had brought to his attention the practice of “tagging,” where fertiliser dealers and agricultural societies allegedly force farmers to buy nano products in order to access subsidised fertiliser bags. He emphasised that such practices are unacceptable and must be stopped immediately.
Farmers have complained that they are being asked to buy one bottle of nano urea or nano DAP, costing around ₹220, for every five bags of subsidised fertiliser they purchase. Many farmers claim these bottles are not recommended by agricultural experts and add unnecessary financial burden.
Minister Chouhan has instructed state authorities to investigate the source of tagged fertiliser supplies and ensure transparency in distribution. He reiterated that the Centre’s priority is to safeguard farmers’ interests and prevent black marketing or exploitation during the ongoing sowing season.
The Ministry of Agriculture will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with Punjab officials to ensure that fertilisers reach farmers fairly, without coercion or overpricing.