8 hrs ago

India’s 2026 Rabi Season Faces Fertiliser, Water Challenges

India is preparing for the Rabi growing season, when farmers plant crops such as wheat.

The government is aiming for a very large wheat harvest.

Fertiliser is available in the country overall, but it may not reach every village at the right time.

Some farmers may face queues, delivery delays or sellers who break the official pricing rules.

Water is also a concern because groundwater is low in some areas and canals may not deliver enough.

The article says farmers need seeds, fertiliser and water when their fields are ready.

Using different kinds of nutrients and saving soil moisture could help.

The season’s success will depend on getting supplies to farms on time.

Key facts

Wheat production target: 121 million tonnes
Major wheat-producing states: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan account for roughly three-quarters of India’s wheat output.
Wheat irrigation: Wheat generally requires four to six irrigations; the first is needed around 21–25 days after sowing.
Punjab groundwater: Most of Punjab’s 153 development blocks are classified as over-exploited.
Phosphatic fertiliser imports: India imports an estimated 80–90% of its phosphoric acid and finished DAP requirements.
DAP retail price: The article says farmers receive a 50-kg DAP bag at a controlled price of ₹1,350.
Supply monitoring: The Integrated Fertiliser Management System tracks fertiliser movement from factories and ports to districts and retailers.

opindia.com · 9 hrs ago