Andhra Pradesh's app-based fertiliser system ensures transparency, says official

The Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Department has reported that its app-based fertiliser distribution system, known as APAIMS, has delivered positive results during the ongoing kharif season. Agriculture Director Manazir Jeelani Samoon stated on Thursday that the system has enabled transparent and timely distribution of fertilisers to farmers across the state.

According to Mr. Samoon, a total of 15,25,319 farmers have purchased 3,07,183 tonnes of fertilisers through the app. Among these, 3,00,177 tenant farmers procured 96,694 tonnes, accounting for 31% of the total purchases. This indicates that the system is reaching a significant number of tenant farmers, a group often vulnerable to exclusion from agricultural support schemes.

The government introduced the APAIMS app with the objective of ensuring that farmers face no difficulties in obtaining fertilisers. Mr. Samoon emphasised that the system is working as intended. He explained that the department assesses fertiliser requirements on a crop-wise basis, taking into account recommendations from agricultural scientists, data on crop cultivation and fertiliser usage over the past three years, and the current crop situation. This approach aims to align supply with actual demand, reducing shortages and wastage.

The distribution process is monitored through an end-to-end tracking mechanism, from the manufacturer to the end-user farmer. This allows for continuous monitoring and greater transparency, which helps prevent diversion and black-marketing of fertilisers.

Mr. Samoon also highlighted strict enforcement actions against irregularities. He stated that from April 1, 2026, to date, the department has suspended the sale of fertiliser stocks totalling 13,364 tonnes, valued at ₹30.60 crore. Additionally, 2,331 tonnes, worth ₹5.11 crore, have been seized. These actions were taken against dealers found selling fertilisers at higher prices or linking the sale of other products to fertiliser purchases, a practice that burdens farmers.

Further, the department has suspended the licences of 215 dealers, registered 63 cases under Clause 6A of the Fertiliser Control Order, and filed six FIRs. The licences of five dealers have been cancelled. These measures demonstrate the government's commitment to protecting farmers from exploitative practices.

Fertiliser distribution is critical during the kharif season, as timely availability directly impacts crop yields and farmer incomes. The APAIMS app is part of a broader digital push in Indian agriculture, aiming to streamline subsidies and ensure that benefits reach intended recipients. The positive results reported by the department suggest that such technology-driven approaches can enhance efficiency in agricultural supply chains.

However, the long-term success of the system will depend on addressing challenges such as digital literacy among farmers, connectivity in rural areas, and the consistent availability of fertiliser stocks. The department's data shows a substantial uptake, but continued monitoring and feedback will be essential to refine the system further.