Chandigarh Nov 2
The Punjab government has initiated strict measures against fertilizer hoarding. Acting on the orders of Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian, the government has canceled licenses of 91 firms involved in hoarding and has intensified sampling and quality checks. Three FIRs have been filed, and investigations are underway regarding sampling-related cases.
The minister reported that the department collected 2,063 pesticide samples by October 31. Based on test results, licenses of 43 firms found guilty of misbranding were canceled. Additionally, 1,751 samples of chemical fertilizers, 100 samples of bio-fertilizers, and 40 samples of organic fertilizers were collected. Licenses of 48 firms were revoked for misbranding, with three FIRs registered against them.
To protect farmers’ interests, the government has assigned a dedicated team to monitor the sale and supply of seeds, pesticides, and fertilizers across four to five districts. These teams will oversee the demand and supply of agricultural products for farmers. The minister emphasized that no one will be allowed to exploit farmers, and strict legal actions will be taken against those involved in illegal trade.
Five Flying Squads Formed by the Government
The Agriculture Department has established five flying squads to curb black marketing, hoarding, and illegal control of DAP fertilizers in the market. Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian noted that these teams will act against illegal storage, black marketing, and improper chemical tagging of fertilizers, including DAP. These squads will not only monitor supply but will also ensure quality control through regular inspections and sampling. They will visit retail and wholesale dealers, as well as seed, fertilizer, and pesticide manufacturing and marketing units, to monitor prices and maintain quality standards.
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