Farmers Protest Urea Shortage and Biometric Verification Issues at Kohdaura Cooperative Society

Farmers Face Urea Crisis at Kohdaura Cooperative Society Amidst Biometric Verification Woes

Farmers in Balrampur district are expressing widespread anger over a severe urea shortage at the Kohdaura Cooperative Society in the Haraiya Satgharwa block. They have raised serious questions about the distribution system, particularly the biometric (thumb) verification process required to receive urea.

Allegations state that farmers are being forced to climb a nearly 100-foot-high water tank for verification, a process that could lead to a serious accident at any moment. This impractical system is described as extremely difficult, especially for the elderly and physically challenged.

Many farmers are compelled to risk their lives to obtain urea, as it is unavailable without biometric verification. This situation is compounded by claims that the society is charging ₹280 per bag, exceeding the government-fixed retail price of ₹266.50, placing an additional financial burden on farmers and violating government pricing.

Kharif Crop Crisis Looms Due to Delayed Fertilizer Supply

Villagers reported receiving mobile messages on July 10th about urea availability, but by July 29th, the essential fertilizer remained elusive. The delay in receiving urea is directly impacting the sowing and care of paddy and other Kharif crops, increasing farmers' anxieties.

Some farmers also allege outright refusal of fertilizer to those unable to climb the high tank. This system disproportionately affects small farmers, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Farmers have warned that if urea is not supplied promptly, the productivity of Kharif crops could be severely affected.

Demand for Investigation and Fair Action

Farmers are strongly demanding a fair investigation into the entire matter by the district administration, cooperative department, and other relevant authorities. Their primary demands include establishing a safe and accessible system for biometric verification.

They also seek ensuring timely distribution of urea to all eligible farmers at the government-fixed price. Furthermore, they request strict action against responsible officials and employees if any irregularities or negligence are found during the investigation.

No official statement from the cooperative society or the concerned government department was available at the time of reporting. The Cliff News will publish their response prominently upon receipt.