IFFCO, IPL fertilisers meant for rabi season found 'non-standard' in Chouhan's Vidisha, Pg6

Key Highlights:

• Samples of Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) and Ammonium Phosphate Sulphate (APS), manufactured by IFFCO, were found "non-standard" in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh in January 2026.
• A sample of Triple Super Phosphate (TSP), manufactured by Indian Potash Limited (IPL), was also found non-standard in Vidisha.

Detailed Insights:

• The substandard fertiliser samples were discovered during the current Rabi season (2025-26) in Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s constituency.
• DAP (18-46-0) is used by farmers at the time of sowing as it helps in germination of seeds; the analysis of the sample collected on December 20, 2025, revealed deficiencies in nitrogen and phosphorus content.
• APS (20:20:0:13) is used for crops like oilseeds, pulses, sugarcane, paddy, and cotton; the sample collected on December 1, 2025, showed lower content of phosphorus and sulphur.
• IPL has submitted an application for second reference analysis of the TSP sample as per the provisions of the Fertilizer Control Order (FCO).
• The Agriculture Minister has urged farmers to report issues of substandard agricultural inputs to the helpline center.
• These incidents raise concerns about the quality control mechanisms in place for fertilizers, especially as the government prepares for the Kharif season.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Diammonium Phosphate (DAP): A widely used fertilizer containing nitrogen and phosphorus, essential for seed germination.
• Ammonium Phosphate Sulphate (APS): A fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur, used for various crops.
• Triple Super Phosphate (TSP): A fertilizer containing a high percentage of phosphate, promoting root development and fruiting.
• Fertilizer Control Order (FCO): An order to ensure the quality and regulate the sale, distribution, and pricing of fertilizers.