“Procurement rate to be adjusted from 0.5 to 1%” Punjab CM outlines demands to centre as harvest season begins
New Delhi [India], October 14: As the harvest season kicks off in Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has outlined pressing demands to the central government, specifically seeking an adjustment in the procurement rate for dry harvest from 0.5% to 1%.
The central focus was a pivotal meeting on paddy procurement held in Delhi, presided over by Union Food Minister Prahlad Joshi, Minister of State for Food Ravneet Singh Bittu, alongside Punjab’s Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann. The gathering was designed to explore strategies and resolve pressing issues for effective food grain procurement in Punjab.
Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu emphasized the government’s commitment, noting, “Under the leadership of Modi ji, every possible step has been taken by the BJP government to empower and support farmers in Punjab. This includes the timely sanctioning of CCL limits for paddy procurement. Any farmer-related issues will be given priority.”
Chief Minister Mann highlighted the significance of this season, stating, “Harvesting season in Punjab is akin to a festival as the state’s economy significantly relies on it. Punjab has consistently been a leading contributor to the nation’s food stock. We plan to sell 180 lakh metric tons of our harvest to the centre this year, though we carry concerns about the unfolding of events similar to last year.”
Furthermore, the Chief Minister underscored the necessity for adequate milling facilities, declaring, “We desire appropriate arrangements to commence milling rice by November 15.” Mann pointed out that Punjab currently possesses 120 lakh metric tons of rice, and he assured that the government aims to clear it by March 31.
The meeting also saw Mann voicing further demands, notably the expectation that the centre will handle transportation and adjust the procurement rate for dry harvest to 1%. Mann confirmed, “They have agreed to meet our demands.”
However, concerns have been raised by farmer leader Balbir Singh Rajewal, who accused both Punjab and Delhi governments of delays in crop procurement post-October 1, leaving commission agents, farmers, and rice millers in unrest. He further alleged that government policies have exacerbated conditions in the mandis, with the administration overlooking the farmers’ challenges.
In response to the ongoing issues, Rajewal issued a stern warning, suggesting that if governmental stalemate persists, significant protests could be initiated in Punjab, reminiscent of the farmers’ agitation at the Delhi border.
This ongoing dialogue and negotiation illustrate the persisting struggles and debates surrounding agricultural operations and farmer welfare in Punjab. With the adjustments in procurement rates and logistical support commitments, the region hopes for smoother seasonal transactions and fulfillment of the farmers’ expectations. These discussions are not only crucial for Punjab’s agrarian economy but also for India’s broader food security landscape as the state is a major contributor to the country’s food grain reserves.
