Central Government Denies Possibility of Chemical Fertilizer Shortage

27-Apr-2026 05:29 PM

New Delhi. Dismissing apprehensions regarding a severe shortage of chemical fertilizers in the country, the Central Government has stated that urea stocks have been steadily increasing since mid-April, and efforts are also underway to boost imports from abroad.

The government asserts that adequate stocks of all major chemical fertilizers will be available in the country before the commencement of the sowing season for Kharif crops.

According to government statistics, as of mid-April (2026), the country held a urea stock of 67.30 lakh tonnes—only slightly lower than the 68 lakh tonnes available on the corresponding date last year. The pace of imports has been somewhat slower this year.

According to official sources, the intense apprehension being expressed regarding a shortage of urea and other fertilizers does not align with the actual facts. An adequate supply of fertilizers was ensured during the 2025-26 Rabi season, and the stock position for the upcoming 2026-27 Kharif season is also in a largely comfortable state.

Officials note that, in addition to urea, the country's stock of DAP fertilizer rose to 22.10 lakh tonnes by mid-April—up from 13 lakh tonnes last year. Similarly, during the period under review, the stock of NPK fertilizer surged from 41.80 lakh tonnes to 57.40 lakh tonnes. Consequently, the overall stock of fertilizers has increased.

Between April 1 and April 23, 2026, the total availability of urea stood at 69.30 lakh tonnes, whereas the estimated requirement was 18.10 lakh tonnes.

Similarly, against a requirement of 5.90 lakh tonnes, the stock of DAP fertilizer stood at 22.70 lakh tonnes; for MOP, availability was 8.30 lakh tonnes against a requirement of 1.70 lakh tonnes; and for NPK fertilizer, total availability was 52.70 lakh tonnes relative to a requirement of 7.40 lakh tonnes.