KATHMANDU: The All Nepal Peasants’ Federation (Revolutionary Centre) has demanded that the smooth supply of fertilizers be ensured.

Issuing a press statement today, the Federation expressed concern over the shortage of chemical fertilizers at a time when seeds for rice and millet are being sown, fertilizers are required for Chaite dhan (spring rice), and summer farming is underway.

In the statement, it said that rice, maize and millet are major strategic crops with a direct impact on Nepal’s national economy, people’s lifestyle, livelihoods and food security. The insufficient supply of fertilizers at such a sensitive time is enough to discourage farmers, the Federation concludes.

“It is disappointing to see farmers standing in queues to access fertilizers, setting aside their farming work. This issue should be resolved,” the press note reads.

The Federation has called for control over the black-market supply of chemical fertilizers, the formulation of sustainable plans to address the issue, and the distribution of fertilizers based on farmers’ priorities, with special consideration for small and marginal producers.