Second phase of fertilizer distribution begins in Madhes

The Agricultural Inputs Company Limited (AICL) in Janakpurdham has officially initiated the second phase of chemical fertilizer distribution. This program is being implemented at a critical juncture, as paddy transplantation activities in the Dhanusha and Mahottari districts reach their final stages. The initiative follows a directive from the Madhes Province Ministry of Land Management, Agriculture and Cooperatives to ensure that local farmers have access to essential agricultural inputs.

According to Bechan Sah, the information officer at the AICL office in Janakpurdham, the distribution is strictly adhering to specific district quotas. For the Dhanusha district, the allocation consists of 979 metric tons of diammonium phosphate (DAP) and 926 metric tons of urea. Meanwhile, the Mahottari district has been allotted 931 metric tons of DAP and 880 metric tons of urea to support its agricultural sector.

In recent days, both districts had reported significant shortages of fertilizers, which had threatened to impede the progress of the planting season. These recent allocations have gradually eased the supply pressure, providing much-needed relief to local farmers. AICL officials further confirmed that an additional 2.6 metric tons of urea remain in stock at the Janakpurdham office to address any immediate demand.

The distribution process had encountered logistical delays earlier this month. Transportation networks were disrupted for several days due to curfews and prohibitory orders enforced by local administrations in response to civil disturbances in the Sunsari and Siraha districts. These security measures restricted the movement of essential goods, preventing fertilizers from reaching distribution points on schedule.

However, logistics have since resumed, allowing for the consistent delivery of supplies to farmers during the final stage of the transplantation process. Local authorities continue to monitor the distribution network to ensure that the allocated fertilizers effectively reach those in need, helping to stabilize the regional agricultural output despite the earlier logistical challenges.