Telangana Agriculture Dept Acts On Urea Diversion

Hyderabad:With agricultural activity picking up across Telangana, the agriculture department has launched a crackdown on black marketing of urea, following reports of diversion to non-agricultural sectors such as paint, resin and plywood manufacturing.

Though the state has received 18 per cent more urea this year compared to the same period last year, complaints of localised shortages have surfaced. Authorities suspect that increased demand is fuelling illegal sales to industrial units that use urea as raw material, depriving farmers of an essential supply.

Taking serious note, agriculture commissioner and director Dr B. Gopi held a review meeting on Tuesday with district cooperative officers and district agriculture officers. The department announced the setting up of a 24-hour control room to monitor stocks, coordinate supply and crack down on unauthorised distribution.

Farmers have been urged to report any illegal activity on the helpline 89777 41771. Each Primary Agriculture Cooperative Society (PACS) retail outlet is now instructed to display a urea stock board and operate from 8 am onwards. Department staff will work with PACS outlets to ensure compliance.

Additionally, the department will intensify inspections at interstate borders to curb illegal transport of urea.