(MENAFN- KNN India) Amaravati, Aug 23 (KNN) Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu has directed strict enforcement measures against irregularities in urea distribution across the state, instructing farmers to procure fertiliser exclusively for immediate Kharif crop requirements while avoiding stockpiling for the upcoming Rabi season.

The directive comes amid reports of localised supply disruptions and aims to prevent misuse of fertilisers for non-agricultural purposes while ensuring equitable access for legitimate farming needs.

During a high-level video conference held on Thursday, Minister Atchannaidu convened with senior officials including Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand, Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta and others along with representatives from agriculture, cooperation, and district administrations.

The meeting centered on evaluating urea availability despite the Central government's allocation of supplies that exceed the state's actual requirements.

The minister identified inefficiencies within internal distribution networks that have created difficulties for farmers in certain regions, even as the Centre provided surplus urea for the Kharif season.

Atchannaidu expressed concern regarding media reports that have magnified these distribution issues, potentially affecting the government's public standing.

He instructed officials to expeditiously resolve operational bottlenecks and counter the circulation of misleading information about fertiliser shortages.

A significant policy adjustment was announced, modifying the urea distribution ratio between Markfed and private dealers from the previous 50:50 split to a new 70:30 arrangement favoring public distribution channels.

The minister also ordered accelerated transfers from Markfed buffer stocks to rural Rythu Seva Kendras (RSKs), with the state government committing to cover associated transportation expenses.

Heightened surveillance measures were emphasised to prevent fertiliser diversions to industrial uses, with joint inspection teams comprising police, revenue, and industries department personnel conducting field verifications.

Special Chief Secretary Rajasekhar attributed instances of panic buying to unsubstantiated rumors and clarified that the Centre had approved 6.22 lakh metric tonnes for Kharif and 9.38 lakh metric tonnes for Rabi seasons, eliminating any justification for bulk purchasing.

(KNN Bureau)

MENAFN24082025000155011030ID1109967370