Following a price increase of more than 60% for ammonium sulphate in two weeks, farmers in Salem and Namakkal districts have demanded a price reduction as farming activities resume after the recent rains.

The past three weeks had witnessed heavy rain in various parts of the Salem and Namakkal districts. Following the rain, farmers in both districts resumed cultivation over the past two weeks. Meanwhile, the price of ammonium sulphate, which expedites crop growth and provides high yield, has increased by more than 60% compared to its price two weeks ago. Ammonium sulphate is used for all major crops, including paddy, sugarcane and onion.

M. Sudhakar, a resident of Rasipuram in Namakkal district, who cultivates onions in his land, said that two weeks ago, one bag (50 kg) of ammonium sulphate was sold between ₹750 and ₹900 (including Goods and Services Tax). But, on Thursday (September 24, 2026), the same product was sold for ₹1,500, including ₹114.40 as SGST and a CGST of ₹114.40. “When asked for the reason behind the price hike, the shopkeeper was unable to provide an answer,” Mr. Sudhakar added.

Mr. Sudhakar stated that under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Urvarak Pariyojana (PMBJP), ₹473.95 is provided as a subsidy for a 50-kg bag, and this is an updated subsidy for a ₹1,500 (50 kg) bag. The Union and State Government must look into the issue and reduce the price of ammonium sulphate, he added.

S. Kannan, a farmer at Attaiyampatti in Salem district who owns a coconut grove, said, ammonium sulphate is usually utilised along with pesticides. But, due to a sudden price hike, farmers have opted for urea, as it is priced at ₹300 per bag. Mr. Kannan pointed out that urea cannot be used in larger quantities. “If the current situation persists, agro shops will create a scarcity of urea, which will lead to its price hike as well,” he said. After water was released from the Mettur dam and with recent rains, farmers have recently started cultivation. Therefore, the government should control the price of ammonium sulphate, he added.