CM urged Central Govt. to reduce fertiliser prices
New Delhi : Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has urged the Central Government to reduce fertiliser prices. In his meeting with Union Agriculture Minister Sharad pawar at Krishi Bhawan at New Delhi on Tuesday, Shri Chouhan has requested him to take necessary action as soon as possible to avert the situation like last year.
‘The cost of agriculture has gone up due to two and a half to three fold hike in fertiliser prices. Farmers’ economic condition is weakening. Farmers have been left at the mercy of market.’ Shri Chouhan said.
Referring to inadequate arrangements for gunny bags during the Rabi season last year, Chief Minister Shri Chouhan said that these arrangements should be made in advance so that situation like last year does not crop up. If arrangements cannot be made, then permission should be given to use plastic bags.
Shri Chouhan said that Madhya Pradesh is a pulses-producing state. The Centre has abolished subsidy on pulses. He said that subsidy should be restored to save farmers from economic loss.
Acquainting the Union Agriculture Minister with situation arising due to heavy rains in the state, Shri Chouhan informed that nine districts of the state have been affected by excessive rainfall while seven districts are facing scanty rains. He said that assessment of crop loss due to excessive rains is being made. Detailed report of losses will be sent to the Agriculture Ministry.
Chief Secretary Shri R. Parasuram, Agriculture Production Commissioner Shri Madan Mohan Upadhyay and senior officers of the Union Agriculture Ministry were present on the occasion.
