New Delhi, July 13 -- Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has written to the Chief Ministers of all States and Union Territories, "directing immediate and strict action" against the issue of counterfeit and substandard fertilizers.

The letter has been issued with the objective of curbing the sale of fake fertilizers, black marketing of subsidized fertilizers, and illegal activities such as forced tagging across the country, a statement from the Union Ministry said.

In the letter, the Union Minister emphasised that agriculture is the backbone of India's economy, and to ensure stability in farmers' income, it is essential to provide them with quality fertilizers at the right time, at affordable prices, an...