Munde Ensures Seeds and Fertilizers Abundant, Crackdown on Malpractices.

Mumbai : Agriculture Minister Dhananjay Munde has assured that seeds and fertilizers are abundantly available in the state, with additional demands to be met in the coming week. Minister Munde emphasized taking strict action against malpractices like overpricing, sale of fake seeds, and other irregularities. He also instructed that 75 percent of crop loans should be distributed by the end of June.

Minister Munde conducted a state-level review of seed and fertilizer availability through a video conference from his official residence. The review covered Kharif crop conditions, seed and fertilizer availability, rainfall data, sowing progress, seed sales, crop loan disbursement statistics, and crop insurance status. Officials present included Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, Superintendents of Police, Agriculture Officers, and others.

Munde stressed that the department and quality control directorate must ensure smooth distribution of seeds and fertilizers. He directed the agriculture department and district offices to act against overpricing and submit reports. Each taluk should deploy at least three inspection teams to visit a minimum of 25 shops daily. Immediate measures should be taken to address fertilizer shortages in Parbhani and Yavatmal.

The Minister instructed that every district should announce an emergency helpline and WhatsApp number for local issues, similar to the state government’s directive. District Superintendents of Police were asked to appoint a sub-divisional police officer as a coordinator for agricultural support.

Public awareness about soybean germination should be raised, and farmers encouraged to test germination at home. Fertilizer samples should be regularly checked. All these actions must be implemented within the next two days. If needed, officials from the Revenue and Rural Development Department will be involved.

Despite low rainfall delaying sowing in some districts, the crop loan distribution target, currently at 35 to 40 percent, should reach beyond 75 percent by the end of June. District collectors should review progress weekly to ensure targets are met, Minister Munde concluded.