Chandigarh. Sept 16 — Paddy procurement in Punjab will start Tuesday, marking the first time in 37 years the process begins this early, even as farmers grapple with flood damage and persistent rains. The state has set up 1,822 procurement centers and fixed a target of 19 million tonnes of paddy this season.
Farmers have been told to bring their produce to the mandis only after mapping with commission agents to avoid hurdles during sale. With fields waterlogged and grains carrying higher moisture, officials admitted the condition of the crop could complicate procurement.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said he would personally monitor the process by visiting mandis across districts. “If any kind of arbitrariness is done to farmers in the name of moisture, it will not be tolerated,” Mann said. “The government will take strict action.” He noted that mapping with commission agents will remain mandatory to ensure quality checks and fair assessments.
According to the Punjab Mandi Board, arrangements for electricity and drinking water have been completed. A special campaign is underway to revive flood-affected grain markets. Workers have been tasked with draining stagnant water and clearing mud so that all mandis can be fully functional by September 19.
Farmer leaders, however, voiced concern over market trends. “Basmati has already started arriving in some mandis, but its rate is down by ₹1,000 to ₹12,000 per quintal. The government should pay attention to this,” said Sarwan Singh Pandher.
