Chandigarh: Haryana Agriculture, Farmers’ and Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana made a surprise late-night visit to the Karnal Grain Market on Tuesday and reviewed preparations for paddy procurement. He said that the government has started procurement of paddy and that any negligence in the procurement process will not be tolerated. He directed officials to ensure that farmers face no inconvenience at the mandis.
During the inspection, the Minister reviewed the gate pass and biometric process at the mandi. He also reviewed the basic facilities being provided there and directed that no negligence be allowed in the arrangements. He said that proper arrangements must be ensured for cleanliness, accessible toilets, drinking water and electricity at the mandis.
He said that the government’s priority is to ensure timely procurement, lifting and payment for farmers’ produce. With this objective, all procurement agencies should work in coordination and ensure procurement of paddy at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) as per the prescribed norms. He directed that the paddy procurement process be carried out smoothly.
Shyam Singh Rana said that changes have been made in the system this time to ensure that no irregularity takes place as happened last time. Now, the gate pass will be issued only after the farmer reaches the mandi. A farmer will not be able to get the gate pass issued while sitting at home.
