New Delhi: Union Chemicals and Fertilizers Minister Mansukh Mandaviya would visit Israel and Jordan in the second week of May to ensure the supply of various types of fertilisers in the nation, the sources said on Monday, news agency ANI reported.


“Mandaviya will embark on a visit to Israel and Jordan to ensure availability of various types of fertilizers for the country during the second week of May,” sources were quoted by ANI in its report.


In March, a Jordanian delegation met with Mandaviya to discuss the supply of phosphatic and potassium fertilisers, as well as raw materials, from Jordan to India.


Jordan, in addition to phosphatic fertilisers and raw materials, is a regular supplier of MOP (Muriate of Potash) to India.


India is increasing fertiliser imports from countries such as Jordan and Israel to secure enough supply for the next Kharif season.


Govt Assures On Fertiliser Availability During Kharif Season


Earlier today, the centre stressed that the availability of fertilisers during the current Kharif (summer-sown) season is greater than the estimated demand, adding that its subsidy for this fiscal year may rise to around Rs 2.5 lakh crore to ensure that farmers receive crop nutrients at heavily subsidised rates, news agency PTI reported.


The Centre also stated that it will take stern action against agricultural nutrient hoarding and requested states to monitor fertiliser flow.

It also directed states to offer correct information to farmers in order to avoid panic buying.

 

 

According to an official release, Union Agricultural Minister Narendra Singh Tomar and Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister Mansukh Mandaviya jointly conducted a virtual review meeting with state/UT agriculture ministers on the condition of fertilisers.

 

 

“With the government’s proactive steps in pre-positioning urea, DAP and NPK and other fertilisers supply, currently, we have more stock for a supply of fertilizers for this Kharif season than the demand," Mandaviya was quoted by PTI in its report.

 

He also recommended states continue providing farmers with enough accurate information on availability in order to avoid creating panic or misunderstanding about fertiliser stockpiles.

 

(With Inputs From Agencies)