BJD Slams Odisha Govt Over Fertiliser Crisis, Calls Measures ‘Too Little, Too Late’

The Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday criticised the Odisha government’s handling of the fertiliser situation in the state, alleging that its recent measures to address the crisis were “too little and too late.”

The remarks came a day after the BJP-led state government initiated action against several fertiliser dealers and shop owners accused of irregular supply, which has triggered farmers’ agitations in some areas.

BJD leaders said the government should have taken proactive steps well before the Kharif season began, instead of engaging in “last-minute firefighting.” Farmers, they argued, deserve timely planning and assured supply of inputs rather than reactive measures after unrest breaks out.

The state government, however, maintained that there is no scarcity of fertiliser during the ongoing Kharif season and claimed that adequate stock is available to meet the demand.

The fertiliser shortage issue has sparked political sparring, with the Opposition pressing for stronger measures to safeguard the interests of farmers, while the government continues to downplay the crisis.