Recent geopolitical tensions in West Asia, including disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz linked to Iran-related conflicts, have tightened global supplies of sulphur and sulphuric acid, key inputs for phosphate fertilizers such as DAP, MAP, and SSP. While fringe online claims suggested India had suddenly exhausted all stocks—potentially idling 90 million hectares of farmland and slashing yields by 65%—credible reporting shows a more nuanced but serious situation of constrained imports, soaring prices, and proactive government measures. India, which imports a significant share of its sulphur from the Middle East, is actively considering restrictions on sulphur exports to prioritize domestic needs for fertilizer production and industrial uses. Industry groups have warned that without intervention, stocks of sulphuric acid could shrink within 15-20 days, impacting not only fertilizers but also metals processing, chemicals, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. The government has stated that current fertilizer buffer stocks remain comfortable ahead of the Kharif planting season compared to prior years, with efforts to secure alternate sources and boost domestic urea output despite higher energy costs limiting some production. However, China's decision to halt sulphuric acid exports from May 2026 to conserve supplies for its own agriculture has compounded the global squeeze. This convergence reveals overlooked connections in international chemical chains: sulphur is irreplaceable in converting phosphate rock to usable fertilizer, and any sustained disruption risks higher input costs, expanded government subsidies (already projected over 1.8 trillion rupees), and upward pressure on food prices. Reports indicate farmers are already expressing anxiety over potential shortages, even as officials emphasize adequate inventories. The episode underscores broader vulnerabilities in global fertilizer networks where regional conflicts can rapidly transmit shocks to food security in import-dependent nations like India. Long-term, it highlights structural tightening in sulphur markets beyond geology, driven by refinery patterns and geopolitical chokepoints. While mass starvation scenarios appear overstated, elevated costs and yield risks in key seasons could exacerbate supply shocks if tensions persist.