Chennai: Southern Petrochemicals Industries Corporation Limited (SPIC), recently inaugurated a model fertiliser retail shop (MFRS) in Chettukuzhy, Idukki district, Kerala.

SPIC is the first private fertiliser company to set-up an MFRS in the state. The shop is set up in association with Horti Research Centre LLP, a dealer with a network of over 4000 farmers.

Also known as Kisan Suvidha Kendra, the Indian government introduced the concept of MFRS in the 2016-17 budget. Besides selling quality fertilisers at a genuine price, MFRS will provide a range of consulting and agriculture-related services for enhanced farm productivity.

Ashwin Muthiah, chairman, SPIC, and AM International, said, “The retail initiative is a way to get closer to our end customer – the farmer and to understand their needs better.”