Rabi season poses major food security challenge for India amid supply constraints

India's government has secured fertiliser supplies through diplomacy and domestic production, but the real test lies in delivering these to millions of farmers during the narrow Rabi sowing window. The season is critical for wheat, with the government targeting 121 million tonnes of production. Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan together account for roughly three-quarters of India's wheat output.

Irrigation presents a significant challenge. Wheat requires four to six irrigations, with the first needed within 21–25 days of sowing. The 2026 monsoon stressed water levels in northern India, with Punjab and Haryana facing severe groundwater depletion. Canal systems struggle with inadequate releases, siltation and failure to reach tail-end villages.

India remains heavily dependent on international markets for phosphatic fertilisers, importing 80–90% of phosphoric acid and DAP requirements. Despite elevated international prices, Indian farmers receive 50-kg DAP bags at ₹1,350, with the government absorbing the cost difference through subsidies.