Kuldeep Dhaliwal conducts surprise raids on Fertilizer stores, warns of strict action against black marketing or overcharging
Ajnala/Chandigarh(The Uttam Hindu): Former Cabinet Minister and Ajnala MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal has launched a strong crackdown against black marketing and overpricing of DAP fertilizer, following multiple complaints from farmers that they were being forced to buy fertilizer at rates much higher than the government-approved price of ₹1350 per bag.
Dhaliwal said that with the wheat sowing season approaching, fertilizer availability at the correct price is crucial for farmers, especially in flood-affected areas of Ajnala, where crops have already suffered heavy losses. “Our farmers have faced enough devastation due to floods. If they are now forced to buy overpriced fertilizer, that would be an unforgivable injustice,” he said.
The Ajnala MLA personally conducted surprise inspections at several fertilizer depots and private stores across the constituency over the last two days. Accompanied by officers from the Agriculture Department, MARKFED, and the Cooperative Department, Dhaliwal held an emergency meeting with senior officials, including the Chief Agriculture Officer Amritsar, DM MARKFED, and DM Cooperative, to address complaints of fertilizer overpricing and irregular supply.
Dhaliwal revealed that several private dealers and a few cooperative society secretaries were allegedly involved in overcharging and black marketing. “Some elements who have got used to this unethical business must understand that these practices will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Every complaint will be investigated and guilty persons will face strict legal action,” he declared.
During inspections Dhaliwal found that while the official DAP price is ₹1350, farmers were being charged between ₹1800 and ₹2000 per bag. In some cases, fertilizer meant for rural cooperative societies was being diverted elsewhere and sold at inflated prices. Dhaliwal has ordered a full inquiry to trace where this fertilizer was sent and who benefitted from it.
He also condemned the practice of forcing farmers to buy additional chemicals or nano-fertilizer bags costing ₹600 each along with DAP. “This bundling is completely illegal. Any dealer caught forcing farmers to buy unnecessary products will face immediate suspension and legal action,” he said.
To ensure transparency, Dhaliwal has directed all fertilizer dealers to display government-approved prices and available stock outside their shops. “From tonight, flex boards showing the official prices of all five fertilizers in demand this season will be installed outside every store. Dealers must display their rate lists and stock positions publicly. If they fail to do so, they will face action,” he announced.
Dhaliwal also released his personal number (75095-30001), allowing farmers to report overcharging, harassment, or forced sales directly to him. “If any dealer demands extra money or misbehaves, take a photo or short video and send it to me. I will personally ensure immediate action. No farmer should fear anyone, I am standing with them,” said Dhaliwal.
He added that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian have given clear instructions that no shortage of fertilizer will be allowed in Punjab and that adequate supplies will be sent to every flood-affected region on priority. “Under the leadership of CM Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab Government is fully committed to ensuring that every farmer gets fertilizer at the rightful government rate,” Dhaliwal said.
Reaffirming his commitment, MLA Dhaliwal concluded, “I am the son of a farmer. I know the pain of those who must buy fertilizer at inflated rates after losing their crops. I will not let any dealer or official exploit our farmers. If anyone dares to do so, they will face strict action. Every farmer in Ajnala will get fertilizer at the correct rate, that’s my promise and my duty.”
Government-approved Prices
DAP - 1350
TSP - 1300
NPK - 1900
ASP - 1400
Urea - 266