Urea Diversion: Crackdown in Konkan

Thane, Apr 17 (PTI) The Maharashtra agriculture department has intensified surveillance and enforcement measures across the Konkan region to curb alleged diversion and black marketing of subsidised urea meant for farmers, officials said on Friday.

The move comes amid concerns that neem-coated urea, supplied at subsidised rates for agricultural use, is being diverted for industrial purposes due to a significant price difference with technical grade urea (TGU), they said.

The Konkan division, which includes districts such as Thane, Palghar, Raigad and Ratnagiri, primarily depends on urea for paddy cultivation. However, industries such as chemical, plywood, resin and paint manufacturing units in the belt requires large quantities of TGU.

Due to global supply constraints and rising prices of industrial-grade urea, there is a strong possibility of misuse of agricultural urea by industries seeking economic advantage, according to an official release


Taking serious note of the situation, the state agriculture minister and the department's secretary have directed officials to remain vigilant.

Divisional Joint Director (Agriculture) Shivaji Amle said a special inspection drive has been launched across the region.

In addition, check posts have been established in coordination with the district police to monitor transportation of fertilisers. Vehicles carrying fertilisers are being thoroughly checked to prevent illegal diversion, said the release.

Authorities have warned of strict legal action against individuals or organisations found involved in misuse or smuggling of agricultural urea.

The department has appealed to citizens to report any suspicious activity related to fertiliser movement to ensure timely availability for farmers and prevent artificial shortages.