In an agriculture-dependent economy, fertiliser is a necessity of production.

Yet every year, in the Aman and Boro seasons, some degree of fertiliser crisis becomes a trial for farmers. This year is no exception.

The relevant ministry has already said there is no fertiliser shortage in the country.

Farmers, however, are protesting because they cannot get supplies, and there have been incidents of fertiliser warehouses being vandalised.

A lead report in Desh Rupantor on 22 September carried word of fertiliser being smuggled into neighbouring Myanmar.

Adequate stock in the official ledger and fertiliser available at the dealer's shop are not the same thing; finding the reason for that gap is what matters now.

Ensuring that subsidised fertiliser reaches genuine farmers at the fixed price calls for scrutiny of the distribution system and transparency in appointing dealers alike.

Source: Desh Rupantor