Despite Maharashtra witnessing the highest number of farmer suicides in the country, the state government, led by the BJP alliance, seems indifferent and has failed to take serious action, claimed Nana Patole, President of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee. The government has made only announcements regarding massive financial allocations for farmers but has failed to ensure any real benefit. Meanwhile, officials in the Agricultural Department have colluded with ministers, embezzling funds meant for farmers.
Patole revealed that a massive ₹87 crore scam occurred involving the purchase of Nano Urea and Nano DAP in the Agriculture Department. These purchases were conducted under the Maharashtra Agricultural Industry Development Corporation (MAIDC), which, through a business entity called Palival Maheshwari House of Business & Research, orchestrated the fraud.
MAIDC had initially sanctioned ₹158.79 crore to procure raw materials for Nano Urea and Nano DAP. The corporation was supposed to buy these products from IFFCO (Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited), and the raw material purchase was not part of the deal. However, the entire process was carried out in violation of election code guidelines without proper approval from the Election Commission.
Patole further highlighted that despite the online rate for Nano Urea being ₹93 and Nano DAP being ₹273 per 500 ml bottle, the corporation went ahead and purchased them at inflated prices—₹220 and ₹590 per bottle, respectively—resulting in an additional ₹87 crore expenditure. According to Patole, this was a clear case of corruption facilitated by altering tender terms, making it easier for specific suppliers to profit from inflated rates.
The tender process, which was supposed to be exclusive to suppliers with a turnover of at least ₹50 crore, was manipulated to allow smaller entities to participate. This change in the tender conditions led to a situation where private vendors, instead of IFFCO, were allowed to supply these products.
In addition, Patole pointed out that the MAIDC was supposed to procure products at the lowest market price, but the tender was revised, allowing higher-than-market prices to prevail. The inclusion of private sellers without a proper sales license from the Agricultural Commissioner’s office further raised suspicions.
Patole accused the MAIDC’s managing director, Dr. Mangesh Gondawale, along with Chief Financial Officer Sujit Patil and Deputy General Manager Mahendra Dhandhe, of being involved in this massive scam. He called for a detailed investigation into their roles.
“While farmers are taking their lives due to mounting financial pressures, the ruling government is engaged in looting farmers’ hard-earned money. Strict action must be taken against these corrupt officials,” Patole demanded.
In light of the shocking revelations, the Congress party has called for an immediate probe into the matter, urging the Chief Minister to show political will and deliver justice to the farmers.
