Fertilizer prices, subsidies determined by Central government, says official

The Department of Agriculture has issued a clarification that fertilizer prices and subsidies are determined entirely by the Central government.

Agriculture Director Manazir Jeelani said in a statement on Wednesday that the Department of Fertilisers (DoF), under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, was solely responsible for fixing fertilizer prices and deciding subsidy allocations.

The Central government had ensured that the prices of commonly used fertilizers like urea and DAP remained unchanged, while that of complex fertilizers had seen only marginal increase.

Overall, the Central government was providing a subsidy of approximately ₹1.92 lakh crore to support farmers nationwide, he said.

Under the Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Policy, subsidies on nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potash, and sulphur, were reviewed twice annually for the kharif and rabi seasons. Based on this review, the Fertiliser Price Committee revises and notifies prices according to the Fertiliser Control Order, he said.

Mr. Manazir Jeelani also warned farmers against excessive use of urea, noting that it could degrade soil fertility and negatively affect crops, the environment, and human health. Farmers were advised to use fertilisers in a balanced and judicious manner.

To ensure compliance, enforcement teams had been constituted to take strict action against dealers selling fertilizers above prescribed rates, or forcing farmers to purchase unwanted products.

“Farmers can lodge complaints with the nearest Mandal Agriculture Officer, or through the toll-free helpline 155251. Appropriate action will be taken based on verified complaints,” he said.