Govt cancels 6,900 licences in fertilizer hoarding crackdown

The Centre has intensified its crackdown on fertilizer hoarding, diversion, and black marketing, cancelling more than 6,900 licences and initiating hundreds of legal actions to safeguard farmers’ interests and ensure timely availability of key nutrients.Responding to a query in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Anupriya Patel said that fertilizers are regulated under the Essential Commodities Act and the Fertilizer Control Order, which empower authorities to take stringent action against violators.Highlighting enforcement efforts, the minister noted that since April 2025, authorities have conducted over 4.66 lakh inspections across the country. These actions resulted in more than 16,000 show-cause notices, cancellation or suspension of 6,802 licences, and the registration of 821 FIRs against offenders. The Centre, in coordination with state governments, is reviewing enforcement measures on a weekly basis to ensure compliance and curb malpractices.

Government Intensifies Crackdown on Fertilizer Hoarding and Black Marketing; Over 6,900 Licenses Cancelled to Safeguard Farmers

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— Department of Fertilizers (@fertmin_india) March 27, 2026

Alongside enforcement, the government has ensured adequate fertilizer availability during the ongoing Rabi 2025–26 season. Supplies of key fertilizers such as urea, DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate), MOP (Muriate of Potash), and NPKS have exceeded projected demand, preventing shortages during the critical sowing period.Urea continues to be sold at a subsidised maximum retail price of Rs242 per 45-kg bag under the Urea Subsidy Scheme. Additionally, the Nutrient-Based Subsidy Scheme for phosphatic and potassic fertilizers remains in force, helping stabilize prices amid global volatility.
To further support farmers, the government has extended additional assistance of Rs3,500 per metric tonne towards logistics and related costs for DAP and TSP (Triple Super Phosphate), ensuring affordability and uninterrupted supply across regions.The stepped-up enforcement and sustained subsidy support underline the government’s dual approach of curbing illegal practices while maintaining sufficient and affordable fertilizer availability for the agricultural sector.