Misuse of neem-coated urea in industries; Haryana files 18 FIRs

Large-scale misuse of neem-coated urea by illegally diverting it for industrial use has been detected in Haryana prompting the authorities to register at least 18 FIRs against some paint and plywood companies. Last year, the Modi government had introduced 100% neem-coated urea to check diversion of the highly subsidised fertiliser for industrial usage. "Initially, neem-coated urea made a little bit of difference. But then the industry has found a way out. We have filed 18 FIRs so far this kharif season against companies for using subsidised urea meant for farmers," Additional Agriculture Chief Secretary in Haryana government, VS Kundu, told reporters on the sidelines of an event in New Delhi.

The industry has found a way out to remove the neem coat on urea at a minimal cost. Major misuse of subsidised urea is in Sonipat, Faridabad and Yamuna Nagar districts, he said. "In the name of farmers, the subsidy on fertiliser is consumed by industry. We are keeping a constant vigilance on such activities in these three districts," Kundu said. In order to curb diversion, the official said that the state government is very keen to start direct transfer of fertiliser subsidy to farmers.

There is more scope for diversion of subsidised urea for industrial usage in Haryana as the supply of fertilisers in the state is high because its per capita consumption is among the highest in the country. Total urea requirement of the state is 7.5 lakh tonnes.