New Delhi has witnessed a robust crackdown by the central government on fertilizer diversion and misuse during the current crop seasons. In a decisive move to safeguard farmers’ interests and ensure transparency in the national supply chain, authorities have issued 14,692 show-cause notices, suspended or canceled 6,373 licenses, and registered 766 FIRs across the Kharif and ongoing Rabi seasons spanning 2025-26.
This intensive campaign, spearheaded by the Department of Fertilizers in collaboration with the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, involved widespread inspections, raids, and legal actions at state and district levels. The measures aim not only to guarantee timely fertilizer availability but also to instill market discipline and bolster the reliability of the distribution network nationwide.
Official statements highlight that unbalanced fertilizer use extends beyond degrading soil quality—it fuels environmental pollution and poses health risks. Crops grown in nutrient-deficient soils lack essential minerals needed for livestock feed, adversely impacting animal health and productivity. Such imbalances pose a significant barrier to the sustainability and efficiency of long-term farming systems.
To promote sustainable agriculture, the government is prioritizing balanced fertilization as a core strategy for soil health restoration and maintenance. The Soil Health Card scheme plays a pivotal role, providing farmers with detailed insights into their land’s nutrient status and physical conditions. It offers precise guidelines on using chemical fertilizers, biofertilizers, organic inputs, and soil treatments tailored to specific crops.
By July 2025, the initiative had conducted over 93,000 farmer training programs, nearly 6.8 lakh field demonstrations, and countless awareness campaigns. As of mid-November 2025, more than 25.55 crore Soil Health Cards have been distributed across the country, underscoring the scheme’s profound impact on balanced nutrient management and fostering resilient agricultural practices.