Naveen Patnaik Urges Centre to Address Urea Shortage in Odisha, Warns of Kharif Crop Losses

Bhubaneswar: Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has written to Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers JP Nadda seeking urgent intervention to resolve the ongoing fertiliser crisis in Odisha, warning that a prolonged shortage of urea could severely affect kharif crop production.

In his letter dated August 29, Patnaik expressed concern over the “gross mismanagement of fertiliser supply” in the state, particularly in tribal-dominated districts, where farmers have reportedly taken to the streets due to scarcity. He flagged issues of acute shortage, black marketing, adulteration, and irregularities in distribution, adding that agriculture — which supports over 70% of Odisha’s population — is under serious threat.

Despite official claims that the state has 7.94 lakh tonnes of fertiliser in stock, farmers are allegedly unable to access supplies because of corruption, delays, and a broken supply chain. Patnaik further alleged that fertilisers are being sold above government-approved rates and that MARKFED, a state-run agency, has been diverting subsidised fertilisers to private dealers instead of directly supplying farmers.

He also criticised delays in commissioning the Talcher fertiliser plant, which was supposed to become operational within 36 months of its 2018 foundation but remains non-functional seven years later.

Calling for an immediate crackdown on black marketing and strict action against errant traders and officials, Patnaik urged the Centre to ensure uninterrupted urea supply to Odisha. Failure to do so, he warned, would disrupt agricultural activity during the kharif season and jeopardise the livelihoods of lakhs of farmers.