Ashwini Vaishnaw Unveils Container-Based Fertilizer Transport For Faster Farmer Deliveries

Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced a major reform in fertilizer transportation by Indian Railways. Fertilizer bags will now be moved in steel containers instead of closed box wagons. Containers can be unloaded separately at multiple railway points, helping fertilizers reach farmers faster while allowing trains to continue their journey. The reform will also replace nearly 50 complex freight slabs with a simple per-tonne, per-kilometre pricing system. Weather-resistant containers will protect fertilizer from rain, simplify handling and provide safe storage. The move is expected to improve rake availability, reduce delays and strengthen fertilizer distribution across India.