Crackdown on Urea Black Marketing in Konkan Region

The Maharashtra agriculture department has ramped up efforts to curb the black marketing of subsidised urea meant for agricultural use in the Konkan region. Officials have highlighed concerns about neem-coated urea being diverted for industrial purposes due to a price variance with technical grade urea (TGU).

Critical for paddy cultivation in districts like Thane, Palghar, Raigad, and Ratnagiri, agricultural urea's demand has surged. However, global supply shortages have driven industries like chemical, plywood, and paint manufacturing to misuse agricultural supplies.

State authorities, led by the agriculture minister, have initiated a special inspection drive, setting up check posts and collaborating with local police to monitor fertiliser transportations. Legal action is threatened against any illegal diversions, safeguarding farmers' provisions and averting shortages.