Bhubaneswar, Aug 3 (UDN): Even as favourable monsoon conditions have accelerated Kharif cultivation across Odisha, thousands of farmers are grappling with an acute fertiliser shortage, triggering concerns over crop productivity and rising input costs.

Reports from several districts, including Ganjam, Jharsuguda and Deogarh, indicate that cultivators are struggling to procure essential fertilisers such as urea and DAP during a critical stage of crop growth. Farmers have also alleged overpricing, black marketing and irregularities in distribution.

In Ganjam district, particularly in Digapahandi, Aska, Khandadeuli and Khallikote blocks, long queues have become a common sight outside cooperative societies. Many farmers claimed they waited for hours only to return without fertiliser as stocks ran out.

Several cultivators alleged that while fertilisers were unavailable through official channels, the same products were being sold in the open market at exorbitant prices. They also accused some dealers of forcing them to purchase nano urea, herbicides and plant growth promoters along with regular fertilisers.

Adding to the concerns, farmers in parts of Ganjam alleged that fertiliser consignments remained stocked in warehouses for weeks without being distributed to eligible beneficiaries, raising suspicion over the supply chain.

In Jharsuguda, distribution has reportedly been slowed by technical issues linked to AgriStack registration. Farmers complained that poor internet connectivity and delays in verification have prevented them from accessing fertiliser despite adequate demand.

The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment has acknowledged a shortage of DAP fertiliser in the state and advised farmers to use complex fertilisers as an alternative until supplies improve.

Meanwhile, farmers in Deogarh alleged that they were being compelled to purchase additional agricultural products, including herbicides and vitamin supplements, while buying fertilisers, increasing cultivation expenses. However, the cooperative society concerned has denied the allegations.

Expressing frustration over the situation, farmers warned that prolonged shortages could severely affect crop yields and agricultural output, and threatened statewide protests if immediate corrective measures are not taken.

“We cannot continue farming without fertiliser. A bag priced at around Rs 270 is being sold for Rs 700 to Rs 800 in the open market. Poor farmers are the worst affected,” alleged K. Shyamsundar Dora, a farmer from Sanakhemundi.

Echoing similar concerns, Arun Kumar Dalai, a farmer from Aska, claimed that fertiliser stocks stored at a local cooperative society were not being distributed to farmers. “We informed the authorities, but later found that the stock had disappeared. It is now being sold in the black market at much higher prices,” he alleged.

With the Kharif season entering a crucial phase, farmers say timely intervention by the state government is essential to restore supplies, curb black marketing and prevent disruption to agricultural production.