Protests Erupt Over Urea Shortage: Karnataka Farmers in Distress

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) staged a protest in the Tumakuru district of Karnataka, spotlighting a critical shortage of fertilizers affecting farmers. Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra pointed to the inefficiencies of the state government as a primary cause of the urea crisis that has driven farmers to the streets.

Vijayendra criticized the state's Agriculture Minister for failing to appropriately prepare for the agricultural demands that came with expected rainfall. The lack of administrative oversight, he alleged, stems from political distractions within the state government. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers JP Nadda assured the supply of adequate urea in the coming weeks, as mentioned by former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai during a press conference.

Bommai elaborated on the situation, noting that increased maize cultivation due to favorable monsoon conditions has elevated urea demand. Usually, the demand for urea aligns with monsoon patterns, but this year's early rains prompted multiple applications. This, combined with labor shortages and rising herbicide costs, has strained farmer finances considerably. Allegations of corruption in the distribution process and unfair access further exacerbate the crisis, despite ample urea stocks in the state, Bommai said. He urged the government for better distribution policies and administrative action to alleviate the burden on farmers.

(With inputs from agencies.)