Puncha season under threat as fertilizer shortage grips Kerala’s Kuttanad

Key Points

1. Severe fertilizer shortage in Kuttanad and Alappuzha district, Kerala.
2. Urea, potash, and phosphate are in short supply.
3. Puncha crop season is underway, requiring timely urea application.
4. Urea costs ₹300 for a 45-kg sack.
5. Potash price increased to ₹1,800 from ₹1,500 per bag.
6. Kerala received only 20,000 tonnes of urea against the allocated 43,000 tonnes between October and December.
7. Pineapple sector requires 22,500 tonnes of urea and 15,000 tonnes of potash annually.