Imphal, June 15 (IANS) Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Monday highlighted the state government’s efforts to reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers and gradually expand organic farming across the state.

The Chief Minister flagged off fertiliser distribution trucks and launched the organic fertiliser brand ‘Oorja’ during the Fertiliser Distribution Camp for Kharif 2026, organised by the Directorate of Agriculture at Sanjenthong in Imphal.

Singh said that around 4,000 hectares of land have already been brought under organic cultivation in Manipur, and the government is working towards bringing another 4,000 hectares under organic farming in the coming years.

As part of the initiative to promote sustainable agricultural practices, ‘Oorja’ is being made available to farmers at a subsidised rate of Rs 250 per bag against its market price of Rs 480.

The Chief Minister also inspected the Organic Outlet Shop set up near the venue. He said that the government has undertaken several measures to ensure the timely availability of fertilisers to farmers across the state. Singh stated that around 1.8 lakh bags of urea were distributed up to September last year, although reports of shortages were received from certain areas.

To address such concerns, fertiliser distribution is now being carried out on the basis of Aadhaar cards, farmer cards, and location-specific requirements to ensure fair, transparent, and need-based allocation, he said.

The Chief Minister informed that around 2 lakh bags of urea are currently available in stock and asserted that there is no shortage of fertilisers in the state at present. He said fertilisers would be distributed strictly on the basis of requirement and only after verification of proper documents.

Singh further stated that officials of the Agriculture Department would closely monitor fertiliser distribution in all districts to prevent irregularities and ensure that farmers receive adequate supplies on time.

Appealing to farmers to report any grievances related to fertiliser availability, he urged them to approach the Directorate of Agriculture so that issues could be addressed promptly.

The programme was attended by Agriculture Commissioner Thaithuilung Panmei, officials of the Agriculture Department, public representatives, farmers and other stakeholders, among others.

–IANS

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