Farmers protest in Sirsa over DAP shortage amid wheat sowing season

Our Correspondent

Sirsa, Updated At : 08:59 AM Nov 13, 2024 IST

Police officials try to pacify protesting farmers in Sirsa.

The shortage of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser in Sirsa continues to trouble farmers as the government struggles to ensure an adequate supply. With the wheat sowing season in full swing, the unavailability of DAP has halted agricultural activities, leaving farmers frustrated.On Tuesday morning, a number of farmers queued up early to secure DAP, only to be informed around 11 am that the stock had run out. Agitated by the lack of supply, they blocked Dabwali Road in protest, disrupting traffic for over an hour.

DSP Arshdeep Singh and Civil Lines police station incharge Dinesh Kumar intervened, assuring the farmers their needs would be prioritised as soon as new DAP stock arrives. The farmers lifted the blockade after this assurance.

Despite repeated claims of the government regarding sufficient DAP availability, the ground reality suggested otherwise. Retailers across the district report a complete lack of stock, too. Farmers accuse the government of making false statements, with many warning of severe financial losses if the fertiliser was not provided promptly.

"If we don’t get DAP in time, we won’t be able to sow wheat, which will result in devastating economic consequences," a protesting farmer stated. The situation underscores the urgent need for immediate resolution to support the farming community.