Farmers Face Overcharging for Fertilizers in Khetlal Upazila

Farmers in Khetlal upazila, Bangladesh, are facing significant financial pressure during the current Aman season as local retailers reportedly charge prices well above the government-fixed rates for essential fertilizers, specifically Triple Super Phosphate (TSP) and Diammonium Phosphate (DAP). According to official guidelines, the government-fixed price for a 50-kilogram bag of TSP fertilizer is 1,350 Bangladeshi taka, while a 50-kilogram bag of DAP fertilizer carries a designated price of 1,050 taka.

However, aggrieved farmers, including individuals identified as Nurul Sardar and Mofazzal, have spoken out about the stark reality at the retail level. They reported that while shops prominently display government price lists, the actual amount demanded from buyers is considerably higher. According to these farmers, a bag of TSP is being sold for between 1,800 and 1,900 taka, while DAP is being retailed at 1,300 to 1,350 taka per bag.

The situation is further exacerbated by retail practices that bypass formal accounting. Farmers stated that when they request a cash memo for their purchases, sellers frequently refuse to provide the fertilizer. Consequently, buyers feel compelled to pay the inflated prices without documentation in order to secure the agricultural inputs needed for their crops during the ongoing season.

Agricultural production in the region relies heavily on timely access to these nutrients, particularly as cultivation efforts reach a critical stage. Data from the district agriculture department indicates that the current Aman season carries a target of bringing 70,095 hectares of land under cultivation across the district. To date, planting has progressed significantly, with 97 percent of the targeted acreage already successfully completed by local farmers.

To support this agricultural output, substantial quantities of agricultural supplies have been distributed through the administrative framework. Official figures show that the allocation includes 9,651 metric tons of fertilizers, including urea, for the current month. The distribution network involves a considerable number of licensed entities, featuring 58 Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) dealers, 112 Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BDAC) dealers, and 326 registered retailers at the local level.

Despite the substantial allocations managed through the agricultural department, the discrepancy between official pricing and retail reality has drawn criticism. Shahjaman Talukdar commented on the situation, asserting that if the complaints brought forward by the farmers are verified as true, the responsible authorities must increase their monitoring efforts. Noting that there is no actual shortage of fertilizer in the market, Talukdar emphasized that implementing proper and strict oversight would ensure local farmers receive the relief and protection they need.