UPPCF to directly import fertilisers

“Short supply from central government has resulted in a fertiliser crisis. Even our share has not been given to us while IFFCO’s fertiliser unit in Allahabad has been closed. We are thus importing fertiliser directly,” Shivpal Yadav told The Indian Express.

UPPCF General Manager Ravindra Singh said that fertiliser are being imported after completing all formalities from Centre’s side.

“This is the first time any cooperative body will be directly import fertiliser. We have published a global tender and expect good response from fertiliser companies in China and other countries,” Yadav said. He added that a letter seeking permission from the Centre for the import of urea too has been sent.

According to official records, UP requires nearly 50 lakh MT of phosphatic fertilisers, in which 25 lakh MT is distributed through cooperative bodies. The supply comes from IFFCO and Kribhco. Every year, there is a shortfall of 3 to 4 lakh MT.

Last year, phosphatic fertilisers did not reach nearly 40 districts. Though UPPCF has decided to import one lakh MT, it is set to be extended to 4 lakh MT. Phosphatic fertilsers are required in both Rabi and Kharif crops.

Similarly, for Rabi crops, 38 lakh MT of urea was required but UP received only 35 lakh MT. IFFCO has closed down its urea plant at Phoolpur in Allahabad, bringing down the urea supply to the state to 0.10 lakh MT while the minimum supply should be 0.60 lakh MT.

The shortfall for October and November has reportedly reached 2.36 lakh MT. In December, there was a shortfall of another 1.25 lakh MT.

Thus, a 50-kg bag of urea is selling for Rs 334 — double its price. Similar situation is arising for phosphatic fertilisers which are now worth Rs 1,140 per bag.

“When we import phosphatic fertilisers, it will stop black marketing and its prices in open market will be checked,” Yadav said. The import will also result in a profit of nearly Rs 20 crore to the UPPCF as handling charge.