Punjab Government Launches Helpline to Protect Farmers from Fertiliser Fraud

The Punjab government has introduced a helpline to assist farmers in reporting pesticide dealers who compel them to buy unwanted products with DAP fertilisers. The initiative aims to combat excessive pricing, hoarding, and unethical practices, with strict penalties for violations under relevant laws.

The Punjab government has introduced a helpline to empower farmers against fraudulent practices by pesticide dealers. Through this service, farmers can report instances where they are forced to purchase unwanted goods bundled with di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) or other fertilisers.

Farmers have been urged to use helpline number 1100 or send a WhatsApp message to +91-98555-01076 to lodge complaints about issues like excessive pricing, hoarding, and black marketing of DAP fertiliser. This initiative, announced by Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, aims to protect farmers from unethical practices.

Minister Khudian emphasized that offenders will face strict actions under the provisions of the Fertilizer Control Order, 1985, and the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, as part of efforts to maintain fair practices in the agricultural sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)