Farmers grappling with DAP fertiliser shortage, says MP Selja

Sirsa MP Kumari Selja has criticised the BJP-led state government for its lack of preparation in ensuring an adequate supply of DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) fertiliser as the rabi crop season begins. She said when the government is aware that DAP shortages become critical during this season, appropriate steps should have been taken in advance. “Farmers are left struggling, while the government claims to be farmer-friendly,” Selja remarked.

In her statement to the media, Selja said farmers across Haryana were facing severe hardships due to the DAP shortage. With rabi crops like wheat, mustard, chickpeas and potatoes requiring DAP during sowing, farmers are unable to get adequate fertiliser. She pointed out that the government agencies had reported DAP stocks as depleted, while private sellers were allegedly selling it at inflated prices.

This year, India’s DAP imports from April to August were only 15.9 lakh tonnes — 51 per cent less than last year’s 32.5 lakh tonnes during the same period. Farmers are now worried that if the DAP supply is further delayed, their fields will dry out, forcing them to re-irrigate and incur more costs. According to government data, the DAP sales dropped by 51 per cent this September compared to last year, largely due to poor distribution planning despite increased demand, following a good monsoon.

Selja criticised the government’s failure to anticipate this demand, calling it mismanagement. “The government has records of land and crop distribution by district, so the DAP and urea supply plan should have been ready,” she asserted, warning that farmers may soon face a similar situation with urea shortages.

In addition to highlighting the fertiliser issue, Selja expressed admiration for Priyanka Gandhi’s active role in politics, noting it would benefit Congress, women and the Parliament. She also paid homage to fallen soldier Jiwan Singh, who was martyred in a terrorist encounter at Gulmarg.