India’s fertiliser production fell nearly a quarter in March, driven by disruptions to imported natural gas linked to the Middle East conflict. Since gas is a core input for producing urea—the key fertiliser powering much of India’s agriculture—the shock highlights how directly global energy disruptions can ripple into farm supply and food costs.
India’s government is pushing alternatives to chemical fertilisers after a 24.6% drop in output and supply disruptions tied to the Strait of Hormuz crisis. The Centre is planning targeted action in high-use districts and aims to reduce chemical fertiliser usage by 25% by 2030, timed ahead of the kharif season and the food production cycle.
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Maharashtra is considering rationing fertiliser sales to farmers for the upcoming kharif season. The state plans to seek Centre approval, arguing the system will curb malpractices and ensure fair distribution. Officials say digital data on sowing patterns and landholdings will be used to estimate each farmer’s actual requirement before allocations are made.
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