Allegations of Corruption Amidst Urea Shortage
Article Today, Hyderabad:
As Telangana grapples with a serious shortage of Urea during the peak Kharif season, disturbing revelations have emerged about a senior MARKFED officer’s involvement in black marketing. The officer is allegedly working in tandem with private dealers to divert urea into illegal markets, creating an artificial scarcity that is pushing desperate farmers to the brink.
Soaring Demand, Sinking Supply
With the monsoon in full swing, the demand for urea among farmers has skyrocketed. However, distribution failures have left them helpless. Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao has made repeated appeals to the Centre for increased allocations, warning that the ongoing shortfall threatens the success of the cropping season.
State Faces Massive Supply Deficit
The minister confirmed that Telangana was to receive 5 lakh metric tonnes of urea between April and June. Only 3.06 lakh metric tonnes were supplied, leaving a glaring shortfall of 1.94 lakh metric tonnes. The supply of imported urea has also been far below expectations, worsening the situation for farmers.
Centre’s Delay Hurting Farmers, Says Minister
Tummala has written to Union Minister J.P. Nadda urging immediate release of the July quota of 97,000 metric tonnes. He also sought an increase in supplies from Ramagundam Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd., requesting a raise from 30,800 to 60,000 metric tonnes to meet the urgent needs of Telangana’s farmers.
MARKFED Official Accused of Hoarding
Amid this crisis, a MARKFED officer stands accused of hoarding urea and selectively distributing it to preferred dealers. In Adilabad, reports suggest hundreds of bags were hidden in a private godown under his supervision. Farmers and insiders claim the official has built a network with district-level officers and agents to control supply and profit from scarcity.
MD’s Efforts Undermined
Though MARKFED Managing Director Srinivasa Reddy is said to be attempting to streamline distribution, insiders report that the accused officer continues to act independently. Staff members whisper about the officer’s influence and alleged manipulation of stock records, making it difficult to trace exact movements of urea.
Farmers Forced to Pay Double
As a result of these actions, urea is being sold at double its regular price in some areas. The artificial scarcity is severely affecting farmers, many of whom are unable to afford the inflated rates. The delay in access during a crucial sowing period could lead to long-term damage to crops and livelihoods.
Urgent Action Needed to Restore Faith
The situation calls for immediate administrative action. The government must not only press the Centre for supply but also investigate and punish those misusing their roles at the state level. Accountability and transparency in urea distribution are essential to protect the state’s farmers and secure this agricultural season.
