Kharif 2026 Boost: Government Secures Fertilizer Supply Amid West Asia Tensions

New Delhi, India – March 19, 2026

India Strengthens Fertilizer Supply Ahead of Kharif Season

Amid ongoing geopolitical developments in West Asia, the Government of Indiahas implemented a multi-layered strategy to stabilize and enhance fertilizer availability ahead of the Kharif 2026 sowing season.

The Department of Fertilizers has combined increased domestic production with global procurement efforts to shield farmers from supply disruptions and international market volatility.

Gas Procurement Push to Boost Urea Output

A key component of the strategy involves securing additional natural gas supplies through the Empowered Pool Management Committee (EPMC). The government finalized global bidding to procure an extra 7.31 MMSCMD of gas on a spot basis.

This has increased total gas supply to urea plants by 23%, from 32 MMSCMD to 39.31 MMSCMD.

As a result, domestic urea production is projected to rise significantly by nearly 23%, increasing from 54,500 metric tonnes per day to 67,000 metric tonnes per day. Gas availability for plants has also improved, meeting 76% of their average requirements compared to 62% earlier.

Fertilizer Stocks Show Strong Position

Current fertilizer stock levels indicate a comfortable supply position compared to last year.

Urea stocks stand at 61.14 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), up from 55.22 LMT in March 2025. DAP stocks have more than doubled to 24.24 LMT from 11.85 LMT, providing a strong buffer ahead of the sowing season.

NPK stocks increased to 57.21 LMT from 34.44 LMT, while SSP rose slightly to 24.80 LMT. MOP stocks, however, saw a marginal decline to 12.65 LMT from 14.13 LMT.

Diplomatic Strategy Supports Supply Chain Stability

At an inter-ministerial press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the government’s proactive and diversified procurement strategy.

He stated that India currently has adequate fertilizer stocks for the Kharif season and emphasized that global tenders were issued well in advance in anticipation of potential disruptions.

According to officials, the majority of imported fertilizer shipments are expected to reach India by the end of March, ensuring timely availability for farmers.

The government continues to engage with multiple international suppliers, maintaining a diversified sourcing strategy to mitigate risks associated with global supply chain uncertainties.