Sangrur, April 20: Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak conducted an inspection of wheat procurement operations at the Sangrur Dana Mandi on Monday. Accompanied by Sangrur MLA Narinder Kaur Bharaj, the Minister stated that the state government is dedicated to ensuring a seamless experience for farmers, with a focus on timely lifting and swift payments.
The Minister declared that as of April 19, state mandis have recorded an arrival of over 38.72 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of wheat. He affirmed that procurement agencies have already secured 34.16 lakh MT, resulting in the transfer of ₹1,818.31 crore directly into the bank accounts of farmers across Punjab.
“The Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stands fully committed to a hassle-free procurement season,” Kataruchak asserted. He maintained that the administration has successfully addressed past issues regarding gunny bags and lifting, ensuring that every grain is accounted for and paid for within the stipulated time frame.
In Sangrur district alone, officials noted that 170 mandis are expected to handle approximately 9.50 lakh MT of wheat this season. The Minister stated that over ₹351 crore has already been paid to farmers in the district, where procurement and lifting are currently proceeding at a steady pace.
Local farmers and commission agents noted that the transparency of the current process has significantly reduced the difficulties faced in previous years. Authorities declared that with Punjab continuing its role as the nation’s food bowl, the state is well-positioned to meet its overall procurement target of 122 lakh MT for the season.
