Gurpreet Singh :- A sense of uncertainty is prevailing across grain markets in Punjab as the wheat procurement season approaches, with commission agents warning of a possible strike that could disrupt the entire procurement process. The development has raised concerns for the Government of Punjab, which is already preparing for the large-scale purchase of wheat from farmers in the coming weeks.
Commission agents, commonly known as arhtiyas, have expressed dissatisfaction over several pending demands and have cautioned that if their issues are not addressed in time, they may resort to a strike during the procurement season. Such a move could severely impact operations in mandis, where agents play a crucial role in facilitating the purchase of crops from farmers.
With wheat arrival expected to begin soon, the possibility of a protest has created anxiety among farmers as well. Many growers fear that any disruption in mandi operations could delay the sale of their produce and payments, adding to their financial worries during the peak harvest period.
Officials are reportedly holding discussions with representatives of commission agents in an effort to defuse the situation. The state government is keen to ensure that procurement proceeds smoothly, as Punjab remains one of the country’s key contributors to the central food grain pool.
Observers say that if a consensus is not reached soon, tensions in mandis could escalate further just days before the wheat procurement season begins, potentially affecting thousands of farmers and traders across the state.
