600 bags of illegal fertilizers seized in Manipur’s Moirang, probe underway

The Directorate of Agriculture in Manipur has confirmed that a consignment of fertilizers intercepted by local residents in Moirang, Bishnupur district, was being transported illegally and without authorisation. The department has initiated legal proceedings against those involved in the case.

Addressing the media, Director of Agriculture Peter Salam stated that approximately 600 bags of Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), commonly known as “Diamond,” were intercepted on April 26. The consignment was initially stopped by vigilant locals on suspicion of unauthorised movement and was subsequently seized by Moirang Police.

According to preliminary findings, the truck carrying the fertilizers is reportedly linked to Agro-Tech Solutions based in Kwakta. The consignment is believed to have originated from Bihar and transported into the state without proper authorisation.

The investigation further revealed that Agro-Tech Solutions is neither a registered nor an authorised dealer permitted to transport or distribute fertilizers within Manipur. The estimated value of the seized consignment is approximately Rs 6 lakh.

The Director stated that the incident constitutes a violation of established norms governing fertilizer transportation and distribution. Legal action is being initiated against all parties involved, including the supplier and intended recipients, under provisions of the Essential Commodities Act and the Fertilizer Control Order.

Terming the case unprecedented, Salam noted that this is the first known instance of an unauthorised dealer transporting such a large quantity of fertilizers into the state from Bihar.

On the issue of fertilizer availability, the Directorate assured that adequate measures have been taken to ensure sufficient supply for the upcoming Kharif season. The department distributed around 1.1 lakh bags of fertilizers in the previous year.

Currently, approximately 1 lakh bags are available in departmental godowns. Plans are underway to procure an additional 70,000 to 80,000 bags over the next three to four months to meet anticipated demand.

To facilitate access for farmers, the department has established around 150 distribution points across the state, along with initiatives for door-to-door delivery.

The Directorate reiterated its commitment to ensuring timely and adequate availability of fertilizers to all farmers during the forthcoming agricultural season.