Aurangabad/Mumbai, May 16 : Maharashtra Water Resources Minister and NCP state chief Jayant Patil on Sunday said that his party will stage a statewide protest against the central government for increasing prices of fertilizers after a recent hike in fuel prices.

Mr Patil stated, “After petrol prices crossing Rs 100 per litre, the Center is now increasing the prices of fertilizers. After the petrol-diesel price hike, now the central government has given another push.”

“Fertilizer prices have skyrocketed and the price of NPK 10.26.26 fertilizer has been increased by Rs. 600 while DFA has been increased by Rs. 715,” he added.

He pointed out, “The DFA, which was earlier priced at Rs 1,185, will now be priced at Rs 1,900. A 50 kg bag of NPK 10.26.26 will cost Rs 1,775 instead of Rs 1,175. The prices of potash have also gone up.”

Mr Patil demanded that the Center should immediately withdraw the hike otherwise NCP will stage agitation in the state.(UNI)