Chief Minister K. Rosaiah asserted here on Tuesday that the government fully met the fertilizer needs of farmers this year, despite a steep hike in demand following increase in the cultivated area to 82 lakh hectares, and denied reports of shortage. Addressing a media conference, first one after recovering from viral fever, he said farmers, however, were not aware of this ground reality due to a communication gap. Mr Rosaiah stated that although the government maintained adequate stocks, problem arose in transportation. He admitted isolated incidents of farmers attacking fertilizer trucks, but stressed that political parties must not generalise them. On doubts expressed by Mr. Naidu if a government existed, He said those criticising the government on fertilizer supply should compare his performance with that of Mr. Naidu. While only 17.98 lakh tonnes of fertilizer were supplied in 2001 kharif, it was now 36.32 lakh tonnes. The supply so far this season was 31 lakh tonnes.

Published Date : Wednesday, Sep 15, 02:35pm IST