STC imports chemical fertiliser DAP; urea to be brought in a week

  KATHMANDU: At a time when there is intense demand from across the country, including the voices raised in parliament to guarantee chemical fertilisers for farmers in the wake of monsoon, Salt Trading Corporation (STC) has said it has begun importing the chemical fertiliser. The corporation responsible for importing the chemical fertiliser this year informed that 17,000 metric tonnes of Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP) have already been imported to the country and are being distributed from various depots. Similarly, 22,000 metric tonnes of urea will also be imported within a week. STC was granted by the government to import as much as 100,000 tonnes of chemical fertilisers, including 20,000 metric tonnes of DAP and 22,000 metric tonnes of urea. The remaining consignment of DAP had also arrived at Calcutta dry port. Department manager at STC, Brajesh Jha, informed that 17,000 metric tonnes of DAP were being distributed from its depots. The remaining amount is also being brought. A sack of DAP chemical fertiliser weighs 50 kilogrammes. It is said the current consignment in the country will be a huge relief to the scrambling farmers. In the world agriculture market, the chemical fertiliser produced in Indonesia is considered the best. It is learnt that Agriculture Ministry has provided grants of more than Rs 11 billion this year. DAP is used for increasing the productivity of soil, while urea has nitrogen to grow plants. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, some 200,000 tonnes of chemical fertiliser are required for the cultivation done in a season. Around 500,000 metric tonnes of fertilisers are used in Nepal annually. Agricultural sector contributes 27% to the gross domestic product (GDP) in Nepal. Similarly, with cereals having an important role, rice production alone accounts for 7% of GDP. Paddy is the major staple in Nepal. Federal lawmakers in recent days have flared their voices for the availability of chemical fertilisers. By RSS READ ALSO:

• House issues directives to govt for timely supply of chemical fertiliser
• NEA collaborates with GGGI to produce chemical fertiliser
• Speaker urges government to immediately address fertiliser shortage issue