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Punjab Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said on Monday that a delegation of Punjab cabinet ministers met with Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to submit a memorandum, urging the timely lifting of rice from mandis and the facilitation of wheat production for the upcoming season.
The delegation underscored the urgent need to clear paddy stocks, referencing last year's challenges when delayed rice procurement caused significant difficulties for the agricultural sector. Minister Harpal Singh Cheema noted that the cabinet has formally requested the government to expedite rice lifting to avoid a repeat of previous issues. "A delegation of Punjab ministers met the governor to address the lifting of paddy. Last year, delayed rice procurement created significant problems. Our cabinet has submitted a letter urging the government to act promptly. Today, we presented our memorandum to the governor, stressing the need for swift rice lifting and support for wheat production in the upcoming season," said Minister Cheema. In recent weeks, Punjab farmers have faced mounting anxiety over difficulties in selling their paddy produce at government wholesale markets (mandis), prompting protests at around 60 locations across the state. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann previously stated that the state government had addressed nearly all demands raised by rice millers. "We have fulfilled nearly all demands from the millers. I took them to Delhi, and they have another meeting tomorrow. Punjab is the leading contributor to the central pool... We stand by our farmers and millers. I am hopeful that the Home Minister will meet them tomorrow to resolve their issues. The procurement is proceeding smoothly," said Mann. "This season is not just a season; it is a festival for us. Punjab's economy depends on it. DBT payments are being transferred to farmers' accounts. Punjab and Haryana lead in wheat production, and any delay in paddy procurement will impact wheat planting. We urge the Central government to assist farmers in ensuring swift procurement, allowing the mandis to operate freely," he added. CM Bhagwant Mann also requested that the Centre raise the procurement rate for dry harvest from 0.5% to 1%. Speaking to the media, Mann remarked, "The harvesting season in Punjab has started, marking a festive period as the state's economy relies heavily on it. Punjab consistently contributes the largest share to the nation's food stock. This season, we plan to supply 180 lakh metric tonnes to the Centre. However, we are concerned about potential delays similar to last year." (ANI)
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