With the onset of brisk pre-monsoon showers in Belagavi, agricultural activities have gained momentum. Anticipating sowing across 7.3 lakh hectares this season, farmers are rushing to procure seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides, raising concerns over the potential sale of substandard farm inputs.
To address this, the Agriculture Department has intensified its vigilance drive across the district. Inspections are underway at warehouses, agri-input shops, and distribution centres to ensure only certified products reach farmers. A nodal officer has been appointed for every 10 fertiliser and pesticide outlets, and samples deemed suspicious are being sent for testing to laboratories in Belagavi and Dharwad.
Joint Director of Agriculture Shivanagouda Patil confirmed that the vigilance unit is actively monitoring sales outlets and investigating violations such as overpricing and artificial shortages. Retail and wholesale agri stalls are under scrutiny, with a separate team formed to enforce compliance.
This season, the department aims to test 10,500 fertiliser samples, 500 seed samples, and 450 pesticide samples. To prevent crop loss due to poor-quality seeds, it has mandated sample testing for every seed lot. Distribution is allowed only if germination standards are met.
There are over 35 farmer contact centres in the Belagavi district distributing certified seeds. However, the rush among farmers makes them vulnerable to unscrupulous traders. Last year, action was taken against more than 25 shops, including the cancellation of 10 licences.
Despite annual inspections, concerns persist. Santosh, a farmer from Chachadi in Bailhongal taluk, noted that substandard products still find their way into the market. “There’s a need for stricter action to protect farmers,” he said.
The department has reiterated its commitment to crack down on those violating norms and is urging farmers to buy only from authorised centres. With intensified surveillance and firm enforcement, authorities hope to ensure quality inputs reach the field, crucial for securing the season’s harvest.