The North News
Chandigarh, May 16
The Punjab government has fulfilled its pledge to procure the entire wheat crop brought to the state’s mandis this season, marking a significant achievement for the agricultural community. Announcing the achievement at Anaj Bhawan in Chandigarh, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak confirmed that Punjab procured all 130.03 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat delivered to purchase centres by the close of the procurement season on 15 May. “This accomplishment reflects the tireless coordination and dedication of our departmental officers and staff,” Kataruchak said, congratulating all involved.
Of the total wheat procured, 119.24 LMT was secured by the government, with traders purchasing the remaining 10.80 LMT. Payments amounting to ₹28,571 crore have been directly credited to the accounts of over seven lakh farmers, providing vital financial relief amid volatile agricultural markets.
The minister added that 104.51 LMT of wheat had already been lifted from the mandis, with the remainder scheduled for removal shortly. To ensure a seamless procurement process, the government established 2,885 purchase centres across the state—1,864 permanent and 1,021 temporary—helping farmers access the system without delays.
Kataruchak also highlighted the government’s push to digitise food security measures, revealing that e-KYC verification had been completed for 1.24 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act. He urged beneficiaries to download the new e-KYC app, which allows them to complete formalities remotely, eliminating the need to visit fair price shops. Officials including Principal Secretary Rahul Tewari, Director Varinder Kumar Sharma and Additional Director Dr Anjuman Bhaskar were present at the event.
The comprehensive procurement drive is being seen as a key step in bolstering Punjab’s agricultural economy and securing farmer incomes in uncertain times.
