IFFCO’s Paradip unit stares at ammonia shortage, may stall fertiliser production

Kendrapada: Shortage of ammonia, triggered by the West Asia conflict, could force the Paradip plant of Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) to halt the production of diammonium phosphate (DAP) and urea, both used to improve crop yield, within a month.Bijay Kumar Parida, chief manager (HR) at IFFCO, Paradip unit, said production of DAP depends on imported supplies of ammonia and its raw material, liquefied natural gas.“The conflict has disrupted supply chains, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for ammonia shipments. The plant can continue operations for a maximum of 30 days on existing stock. If supplies are not restored, production will have to stop,” Parida said, adding that efforts are on to source raw materials from alternative channels.IFFCO is a multi-state cooperative engaged in fertiliser manufacturing and marketing.DAP is a widely used, high-phosphorus fertilizer crucial for early root development, plant growth, and increased yields in paddy and other crops. It is used during sowing.Urea is the most widely used nitrogen-based fertiliser to enhance crop growth, leaf development and yields. Ammonia and liquefied natural gas (LNG) are used for the production of DAP and urea, added farmer leader Umesh Chandra Singh.Industry sources and farmer groups warned of a looming shortage amid shipping disruptions and rising gas prices. Singh, district president of Krushak Sabha, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent advice to cut chemical fertiliser use by 50% indicates stress in the sector.Farm leaders also flagged rising dependence on chemical fertilisers. “Repeated use increases requirement over time, driving up demand each year,” said Ramani Ranjan Routray of Kendrapada, urging authorities to promote organic alternatives such as compost and vermi-compost to reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers.