Patna, June 6 (IANS) Bihar Agriculture Minister and Gopalganj district in-charge minister Vijay Kumar Sinha visited Gopalganj on Saturday, where he participated in a meeting of the district’s 20-Point Programme Implementation Committee at the Collectorate and reviewed the progress of various development projects and public welfare schemes.

Following the meeting, the minister interacted with the media and outlined the state government’s priorities for strengthening the agriculture and horticulture sectors.

He said the government is continuously working to improve the implementation of programmes in agriculture, horticulture, natural farming, and initiatives to enhance farmers’ income.

Addressing concerns over fertiliser availability during the ongoing agricultural season, Vijay Kumar Sinha asserted that there is no shortage of fertilisers in the state.

He said the Agriculture Department is closely monitoring supply and distribution to ensure that farmers receive adequate quantities without disruption.

The minister also issued a stern warning against the illegal hoarding and black marketing of fertilisers.

He stated that strict action would be taken against anyone found to be involved in such activities, adding that the department is maintaining constant surveillance of the distribution network.

The statement by Vijay Kumar Sinha comes amid global petroleum market uncertainty due to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran in the Middle East.

The fertiliser industry is heavily dependent on petroleum and natural gas-based feedstocks for the production of key fertilisers such as urea and ammonia.

Prolonged supply disruptions or a sharp rise in energy prices could adversely affect fertiliser production and availability.

As a result, any escalation of the crisis could increase production costs and pose challenges for the agriculture sector.

According to Sinha, the Bihar government is receiving positive cooperation from local communities and stakeholders, which will help create a more efficient, farmer-friendly agricultural ecosystem across the state.

He reiterated that the state government’s focus remains on promoting sustainable agriculture, expanding natural farming practices, and ensuring that farmers receive the resources and support necessary to improve productivity and income.

–IANS

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