Bassi Pathana/Morinda: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday urged the Union government to relax quality specifications for paddy procurement following flood-related moisture, damage, and discoloration in crops across multiple districts. Visiting grain markets in Bassi Pathana and Morinda, Mann affirmed the state’s commitment to smooth procurement, prompt lifting, and timely payments despite the adverse weather.
Appeal to Centre
The Chief Minister highlighted that unexpected floods have increased moisture content and caused discolouration and damage to grains, necessitating immediate relaxation of procurement norms to safeguard farmers’ incomes. He confirmed that a formal request has been submitted to the Centre, supported by preliminary field findings from affected areas.
Procurement Status
Mann said Punjab aims to contribute 170 LMT of paddy to the national pool this season. The Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs has notified 1,822 regular purchase centres across the state for the KMS 2025–26 season to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Arrivals, Purchases, and Payments
The Chief Minister reported that 63.49 lakh MT of paddy has arrived at mandis, of which 61.01 lakh MT has been purchased. Lifting has reached 91.8% within the 72-hour norm, and payments totaling Rs 13,073.07 crore have already been credited to farmers. Mann emphasized a target of payment within 24 hours of purchase, along with rapid crop movement supported by additional transport.
On-Ground Operations
Procurement operations are running smoothly due to advance planning, continuous oversight, and coordination among state agencies. Mann instructed officials to ensure farmers encounter no delays in weighing, grading, lifting, and payment, particularly during peak arrivals.
Critique of Centre
Mann criticized the Union government for inadequate support during the crisis, noting that Punjab has yet to receive the Rs 1,600 crore announced for flood relief. He urged the Centre to release the funds promptly to aid recovery in the state, India’s food bowl.
Governance Priorities
The Chief Minister reaffirmed that health, education, power, water, and infrastructure remain top priorities. He highlighted academic achievements in government schools, with 265 students clearing JEE Main, 44 clearing JEE Advanced, and 848 qualifying NEET, alongside the launch of a School Mentorship Programme.
Health and Power Outcomes
Mann noted that 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics have been operationalized over the past three years, set to cross 1,000 soon, with 1.75 crore people receiving free medicines. On power, around 90% of households benefit from zero electricity bills under ongoing relief and reform measures, positioning Punjab as a model for consumer-focused power policy.
350th Martyrdom Commemoration
The Chief Minister announced plans to formally invite President Droupadi Murmu for events commemorating the 350th martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The ceremonies will be primarily held at Sri Anandpur Sahib, aiming to inspire citizens to uphold the Ninth Guru’s ideals of secularism, humanism, and sacrifice in the face of injustice.
