Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 28, 2010:
Even though the MRP of Urea is Rs 265.50 per bag, the State Government has decided to provide Urea to farmers at a tentatively worked out price of Rs 750 per bag of 50 Kg.
According to a source in the Agriculture Department, the price of urea has risen almost three fold due to sharp increase in transportation charge on NH-39 coupled with the Supreme Court's directive not to carry more than nine tonnes along NH-53. Because of the prolonged economic blockade which started from April 12 and stretched on till the evening of June 18, Urea, the most important fertilizer for paddy cultivation could not be procured in adequate quantity.
Worried over the possible shortage of Urea, all trucks transporting Urea were made to report to 2nd IRB post at Khuman Lampak after which all the loads of Urea were deposited in the department's godown at Mantripukhri under supervision of the Assistant Fertilizer Officer.
Till this afternoon, around 13,000 bags of Urea have been stocked in the godown.
More loads of Urea are expected in the coming days, said the source.
With the price of Urea tentatively fixed at Rs 750 per bag, the Govt has initiated necessary steps to make urea available to farmers in the next few days.
Urea, now available in the Mantripukhri godown, will be distributed in accordance with the Chief Minister's advice.
Against this available stock of Urea, Government would give a subsidy of Rs 350 per bag whereas farmers should pay 400 for each bag.
However, no more subsidy would be given once the existing stock is exhausted.
Amount required for giving subsidy of Rs 350 per bag of urea to farmers would be utilised from the Special Development Fund, added the source.