The Central government on Tuesday dismissed concerns of an unprecedented fertiliser shortage, assuring that supplies remain comfortable across the country during the ongoing kharif season despite global disruptions.
Urea, DAP and NPK Supplies Exceed Demand
According to the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, against the pro-rata requirement of 14.3 million tonnes of urea, total availability has reached 18.3 million tonnes this kharif, with sales standing at 15.5 million tonnes so far.
Similarly, the ministry reported that 4.9 million tonnes of diammonium phosphate (DAP) are available against a requirement of 4.5 million tonnes, while sales have touched 3.3 million tonnes.
In the case of NPKs, the Centre has ensured availability of around 9.7 million tonnes against the 5.8 million tonnes required, of which farmers have already purchased 6.45 million tonnes.
Urea Sales Surge, Government Ensures Uninterrupted Supply
The statement highlighted that as of August 20, 2025, urea sales had increased by 1.3 million tonnes compared to the same period last year.
Despite the surge, the Department of Fertilisers has ensured uninterrupted supplies by maximising domestic production and securing imports through global tenders.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently attributed the spike in urea demand to the larger area under paddy and maize cultivation this season.
The ministry explained that the Department of Fertilisers is responsible for ensuring timely and adequate fertiliser supplies nationwide.
Before each cropping season, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare assesses state-wise requirements, based on which the DoF issues monthly supply plans for states and fertiliser companies.
The government acknowledged that the Red Sea crisis has forced shipments to reroute via the Cape of Good Hope, adding over 6,500 km to the journey and significantly increasing voyage times, particularly for DAP.
Additionally, the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Iran conflict have pushed international fertiliser prices upward.
To counter these disruptions, the government has undertaken several diplomatic and commercial initiatives. Indian fertiliser companies have secured a supply arrangement of 2.5 million tonnes of DAP with Morocco.
In July 2025, India also signed a Long-Term Agreement with Saudi Arabia for the annual supply of 3.1 million tonnes of DAP for five years, starting from 2025–26.
The Centre reaffirmed its commitment and stated that long-term international engagements, combined with domestic production, ensure farmers face no scarcity during the kharif season or beyond.
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