Bhubaneswar, September 2: As part of its enforcement drive against fertilizer-related malpractices, the Odisha Government on Wednesday said that raids have been conducted at 11,684 fertiliser shops across the State during the current financial year to ensure a smooth supply of fertilizers to farmers during the current Kharif 2026-27 season.

“During the current financial year, raids have been conducted at 11,684 fertiliser shops across the State. Show-cause notices have been issued to 2,774 persons, while fertilizer sales by 321 dealers have been temporarily suspended. In addition, the licenses of 170 dealers have been suspended for allegedly resorting to unfair practices, while the licenses of 96 dealers have been cancelled,” said an official statement.

Further, fertilizer stocks belonging to 12 erring dealers have been seized, and criminal cases have been registered against 7 of them, it stated.

During 2025-26, raids were carried out at 9,017 fertilizer shops while show-cause notices were issued against 2,373 individuals. Sales by 48 dealers were halted, and the licenses of 53 dealers were suspended or revoked in the last year. Further, fertilizer stocks from 15 dealers were seized due to serious allegations, and legal cases were filed against nine people.

This year, the number of raids and enforcement measures has increased substantially. Consequently, farmers now find it easier and more affordable to purchase various chemical fertilizers for their agricultural needs.

On August 29, during a joint raid by Tahasildar, Agriculture officials, and Police at Maa Sabitri Agro Agency in Baliguda Sub-Division of Kandhamal district, a total of 700 bags of DAP fertilizer were seized. Taking a strong view, the concerned authorities also cancelled the shop’s license and filed a criminal case against the erring shop owner.

Raids were underway for the past two days at various fertilizer shops in Manamunda Block of Boudh district, based on information from multiple sources.