Andhra Pradesh gets 25.10 lakh MT fertilisers for rabi, 2.02 lakh MT more than last year

The Central government has allocated 25.10 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of various fertilisers to Andhra Pradesh for the 2026-27 rabi season. The allocation marks an increase of 2.02 lakh MT over the previous year's rabi quota, according to state agriculture officials.

The decision was finalised at a national-level zonal conference held on August 14 to review fertiliser requirements, availability and allocations for the rabi season across states. Agriculture Department Secretaries and Commissioners from various states attended the meeting, said Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Director Manazir Jeelani Samoon.

In a statement, Samoon said fertiliser needs were assessed based on the projected rabi crop acreage, cropping pattern, soil fertility status, availability of NPK and micronutrients, and consumption trends from the past five years. The allocation includes major fertilisers such as Urea, DAP (Di-ammonium Phosphate), MOP (Muriate of Potash), SSP (Single Super Phosphate) and complex fertilisers.

The allocations were finalised in consultation with state agriculture commissioners and based on the recommendations of the Union Department of Fertilisers. Andhra Pradesh's Agriculture Department had submitted a detailed proposal on its fertiliser requirement for the upcoming rabi season.

The total area under agriculture and horticultural crops in Andhra Pradesh during rabi 2026-27 has been estimated at 51.76 lakh hectares. Rabi is the winter-sown season, typically from October to December, and crops such as rice, pulses, oilseeds and maize are cultivated. Fertiliser availability is critical to ensure that farmers can meet sowing targets and maintain productivity.

Samoon said the allocation is in line with the requirements of farmers. The additional quantity compared to the previous year is expected to help address any shortfall and support the state's agricultural output. Officials said the timely supply of fertilisers would be monitored to prevent hoarding or black-marketing.

The central government has been working with states to streamline fertiliser distribution and promote balanced nutrient use. The zonal conference mechanism allows states to voice their specific needs based on local soil and crop conditions, helping tailor allocations more effectively.

Farmers in Andhra Pradesh have welcomed the increase, though some have raised concerns about the availability of specific fertiliser grades at the grassroots level. The state agriculture department has assured that sufficient quantities will be dispatched to districts well before sowing begins.

Agriculture experts note that fertiliser allocation alone does not guarantee a good harvest. They emphasise the need for soil testing, efficient water management and adoption of modern farming practices alongside the use of fertilisers. The government has also been promoting micro-irrigation and organic inputs to reduce over-reliance on chemical fertilisers.

The rabi season is crucial for Andhra Pradesh's foodgrain production, and the assured supply of fertilisers is seen as a stabilising factor for the state's rural economy. With the allocation now announced, the state machinery will focus on logistics and distribution to ensure every farmer receives the required quantity at fair prices.