Punjab Govt Chargesheets 7 Markfed and Milkfed Officials in Urea Diversion Case; Departmental Action Taken

June 29, 2026

Chandigarh: The Punjab government has issued charge sheets against 7 (seven) officials of Markfed and Milkfed and transferred one officer in connection with alleged diversion and misclassification of subsidised agricultural urea supplied to cattle feed plants in the state.

The action follows an inquiry into alleged misuse of subsidised neem-coated agricultural urea, which is meant for farming use but was reportedly diverted and used in place of technical-grade fertiliser at cooperative-run cattle feed units.

How the irregularities were detected

According to reports, the matter came to light after departmental inspections and random checks conducted by state agriculture and cooperation authorities. These inspections revealed discrepancies in stock and usage of urea at Markfed and Milkfed units, including cattle feed plants.

During the checks, officials reportedly found large quantities of urea stock with mismatched classification, including bags of subsidised agricultural urea being used or stored in facilities meant to handle technical-grade fertiliser. Laboratory tests later confirmed the presence of subsidised agricultural-grade urea in sampled material.

Who has been charged

Following the preliminary inquiry, disciplinary proceedings were initiated under major penalty rules. Charge sheets have been issued against seven officials, including senior managers and purchase/quality control staff of Markfed and Milkfed. One official has also been transferred.

Role of Markfed and Milkfed under scrutiny

Both Markfed and Milkfed are key Punjab cooperative institutions involved in procurement and supply operations. The irregularities have raised questions over monitoring and handling of fertiliser distribution within these organisations.

Further probe underway

Further departmental proceedings and investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of irregularities and fix responsibility. Authorities have also indicated that additional action may follow based on the outcome of the inquiry.

The Punjab government has stated that strict action will be taken against any official found responsible for misuse or diversion of subsidised agricultural inputs and public resources.