Domestic Production Holds Firm
Domestic urea production reached 37.49 lakh tonnes during March and April, a figure that nearly mirrors last year's output despite ongoing geopolitical instability in West Asia. This steady performance underscores the resilience of India's fertilizer manufacturing sector.
Total fertilizer production across all types during the March-April period stood at 62.37 lakh tonnes. Specific outputs included 4.79 lakh tonnes of Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), 12.69 lakh tonnes of NPK, and 7.40 lakh tonnes of Single Super Phosphate (SSP). These figures highlight consistent operational capacity across various fertilizer categories.
Import Assurance for Kharif
To bridge any potential shortfall ahead of the Kharif season, the government has proactively secured 37 lakh tonnes of urea through global tenders. This strategic import plan, coupled with strong domestic production, brings the total fertilizer availability to approximately 78 lakh tonnes during this critical period.
Further tenders are underway for 19 lakh tonnes of phosphatic fertilizers, indicating a comprehensive approach to managing supply. Availability of essential raw materials for fertilizer production is under constant review at multiple government levels. This ensures that the supply chain remains unbroken and responsive to agricultural needs.
Robust Stock Levels and Planning
For Kharif 2026, the total requirement is projected at 390.45 lakh tonnes. Current stocks stand at 193.38 lakh tonnes, covering approximately 50% of the total need. Urea stocks are robust at 73.81 lakh tonnes, with DAP at 23.47 lakh tonnes, alongside substantial reserves of other fertilizers. This reflects enhanced government planning, early procurement, and efficient logistical management.
The maximum retail price (MRP) for fertilizers remains unchanged, providing cost stability for farmers. The government maintains that fertilizer availability is strong and consistently exceeds demand across all states, reinforcing confidence in the agricultural sector's input supply chain.
