Iran War: Fertiliser, agri-input stress emerges; Kharif outlook hinges on policy, farmer choices

Synopsis India relies heavily on fertiliser imports routed through the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently facing disruptions. The ongoing war involving the US, Israel, and Iran is producing far-reaching global repercussions, including supply chain disruptions, rising inflation, surging oil prices, and market volatility. The impact is also felt in remote areas of India. Mahendra Kumar, a 35-year-old farmer from an isolated village in the Harda region of Madhya Pradesh, is among those affected by the conflict in West Asia. Ahead of the Kharif season, Kumar, who owns 20 bighas of agricultural land, is facing a shortage of fertiliser and…