Paddy Procurement Crisis in Punjab: Farmers Demand Action

Punjab faces a significant paddy procurement crisis, with delayed crop lifting causing tensions between the state government, farmers, and rice millers. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann directs officials to expedite procurement, while protests and logistical challenges continue to disrupt operations. Farmers demand prompt action as grain markets encounter a glut.

The paddy procurement crisis in Punjab intensifies as farmers and opposition parties criticize the state government over delayed operations. On Monday, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ordered officials to expedite crop lifting from mandis statewide.

Food Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak reported that of the 24 lakh metric tonnes of paddy received, 22.50 lakh MT have been procured, and 4.12 lakh MT lifted. Yet, paddy growers claim unresolved logistical issues have led to a glut in grain markets.

The Bharti Kisan Union (Doaba) escalates protests, blocking a section of national highway-44 demanding action. Challenges with the PR-126 paddy variety's yield stymie operations as rice millers urge government intervention.

(With inputs from agencies.)