Chandigarh, November 23 - Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana has issued strict instructions to all government officials and private fertilizer and pesticide dealers, clarifying that it is strictly prohibited to force farmers to buy surplus fertilizers, zinc, pesticides or any other agricultural inputs with DAP or urea.
Mr. Rana said that farmers cannot be forced to buy unwanted products. Clear guidelines regarding fertilizer distribution have already been issued. Any officer or dealer found violating these rules will not be spared under any circumstances.
He appealed to the farmers that if any officer or dealer is pressuring them to buy surplus products with DAP or urea, then the farmers should immediately contact the toll free number 1800-180-1551 or register a complaint with the District Agriculture Office. Farmers can also lodge their complaints with the agriculture officers at the block or district level. The government will take immediate action and the culprits will be severely punished.
Allaying concerns over the availability of fertilizers, Mr. Rana said that adequate stock is available in the state for the Rabi season. He said that Haryana has received supply of DAP and Urea. Supply is being done in coordination with the central government and adequate buffer stock has been maintained in all districts.
Referring to the complaints received recently of forced sale, Mr. Rana said that immediate action was taken and an FIR was registered against the concerned dealers and their licenses were cancelled.
Assurant to the farmers, he said that the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Naib Singh Saini is ready to resolve every problem of the farmers on priority. Farmers need not worry. Fertilizer will be made available to the farmers on time and as per their requirement. No dealer or official will be allowed to exploit the farmers.