Trends show 27% dip in paddy sowing
- Multiple factors such as water scarcity in Punjab and increase in fertilizer prices are considered the reasons for a 27% decrease in paddy sowing during this kharif season.
Key Highlights
- Union Food Minister had urged States to encourage farmers to sow paddy in more areas.
- Situation is worrisome as farmers in many places have decided not to sow paddy due to unavailability and high prices of essential fertilizers.
- They demanded Centre reduce the prices of fertilizers.
- Till July 1, paddy has been sown on 43.45 lakh hectares in the country.
- 2021: sowing was done on 59.56 lakh hectares.
Shortage of fertilizer
- Farmers have also been complaining about inadequate supply and high prices for fertilizers used for paddy.
- Diammonium phosphate (DAP)
- Muriate of potash (MOP) and
- Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK).
- Prices of fertilizers have increased due to global situation.
- Centre has been maintaining it has ensured availability of fertilizers and regulating prices through subsidies.
- Fertilizer shortage and rise in price has led to its black marketing.
Prelims take away
- Paddy sowing
- Cropping season
- Fertilizers