CHANDIGARH, APRIL 17 — Following the Union Government’s decision to ease wheat procurement norms for the 2026-27 season, Punjab Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak has directed officials to expedite mandi operations. The relaxation, attributed to the persistent advocacy of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, allows for luster loss of up to 70% and increases the limit for shrivelled and broken grains from 6% to 15%.
During a high-level review meeting conducted via video conferencing, the Minister affirmed that these adjustments place Punjab on par with neighboring Haryana, providing necessary relief to the farming community. He stated that with these parameters in place, District Food Supply Controllers must ensure that the procurement process remains transparent and efficient.
Minister Kataruchak noted that the state is committed to a strict operational timeline, directing that all procured produce must be lifted from the mandis within 72 hours. He also maintained that payments should be credited directly into the bank accounts of farmers within a 48-hour window. The Minister declared that any compromise on the quality of operations or the transparency of the process would not be tolerated.
Regarding logistics, the Minister noted that there is an adequate supply of bardana (jute bags) across the state. He asserted that while inter-district movement of supplies can be arranged if necessary, the priority remains a hassle-free experience for all stakeholders. He concluded the session by urging senior officers to personally visit procurement centers to monitor progress and maintain high standards throughout the season.
