Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana on Monday issued a strict warning to all government officials and private fertilizer and pesticide dealers, making it clear that no farmer can be compelled to purchase additional agricultural inputs—such as zinc, pesticides or any other products—along with DAP or urea. He said that any such coercion is illegal, unethical, and will be met with immediate and strict action.
The Minister stated that the practice of forcing farmers to buy unwanted items is a direct violation of both central and state government policies. Clear and binding guidelines on fertilizer distribution have already been communicated. “Any official or dealer found guilty will not be spared under any circumstances,” he said.
To ensure swift enforcement, Mr. Rana directed all District Deputy Directors of Agriculture (DDAs) to promptly investigate any such complaints, conduct on-the-spot inspections, and take stern action—ranging from license suspension to the filing of criminal cases. A special monitoring mechanism has also been activated to track violations in real time.
Appealing directly to farmers, the Minister urged them to immediately report any instance of pressure or forced selling by calling the toll-free helpline 1800-180-1551, or by registering complaints at the district agriculture office. Farmers may also approach block-level or district-level agriculture officers. “The government will ensure instant action, and guilty dealers or officials will face severe punishment,” he assured.
Addressing concerns about fertilizer supply for the Rabi season, Mr. Rana confirmed that Haryana has adequate stocks of DAP and urea, with regular supplies arriving from the central government. Buffer stocks have been maintained across all districts to avoid shortages.
Fertilizer distribution is being conducted through PACS, private dealers, and Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board centers, and mandatory biometric verification at POS machines has significantly curbed black marketing.
Referring to recent complaints, the Minister informed that the government has already taken swift action—FIRs have been registered and licenses of the accused dealers suspended.
Reassuring the farming community, Mr. Rana said the state government, under Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini’s leadership, remains fully committed to protecting farmers’ interests. “No dealer or official will be allowed to exploit farmers. Fertilizers will be made available on time and as required,” he said.
