Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday asserted that his government is committed to procuring and lifting every single grain of farmers’ paddy, ensuring that no farmer faces any inconvenience during the ongoing procurement season. With 177 LMT (Lakh Metric Ton) of paddy already procured, Punjab has once again set a benchmark in smooth and hassle-free procurement. Highlighting the impact of uninterrupted canal water supply, he said it has boosted per-acre yield by 4-5 quintals while reducing groundwater usage. He added that the satisfaction of farmers, arhtiyas, rice millers, transporters and labourers reflects the seamless coordination and efficiency of the entire procurement process.
Chairing a review meeting here, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted, “Punjab is once again ready to play its historically significant role in ensuring food security for the country. The hard work and resilience of Punjab’s farmers, coupled with uninterrupted availability of canal water by the state government, have enhanced paddy yield by 4-5 quintals per acre.”
The CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “This bumper production has once again demonstrated Punjab’s stellar contribution towards making the country self-reliant in food production. Our farmers have worked tirelessly, and the state government has ensured that they receive adequate canal water to support their crops.”
He said, “Wherever paddy has arrived, it has been procured without any delay, providing immense relief to farmers. I have held detailed discussions with representatives of the Arhtiya Association, Rice Millers’ Association, farmers, transporters and labourers. It is a matter of immense satisfaction that everyone is happy and no one is facing any problem. The entire procurement process is progressing smoothly through excellent coordination, mutual understanding and trust among all stakeholders.”
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the encouraging crop yield reflects the positive impact of the state government’s efforts to strengthen agricultural infrastructure and ensure adequate irrigation facilities. He said, “Canal water is one of the biggest reasons behind this improvement. It is like desi ghee for crops as it carries essential nutrients and silt that enrich the soil. I am hopeful that the fertility of Punjab’s land will improve further in the coming years.”
The Chief Minister further said that despite lower rainfall this year, groundwater consumption has declined due to the adequate availability of canal water. He said that ensuring sufficient canal water has helped farmers reduce their dependence on groundwater while improving agricultural productivity.
Reiterating his government’s commitment to farmers, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The state government is fully committed to the well-being of farmers and safeguarding their interests. We will ensure that every single grain of paddy is procured and lifted. I hope that all stakeholders will continue to work together in the same spirit to ensure the smooth completion of the procurement season.”
Directing the officers to remain vigilant, the Chief Minister said that farmers must not face any inconvenience during the ongoing procurement process and that all necessary arrangements must remain in place to ensure timely procurement and lifting.
Cabinet Ministers Lal Chand Kataruchak, Hardeep Singh Mundian and Barinder Kumar Goyal, Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Principal Secretary to CM Dr Ravi Bhagat, Special DGP PK Sinha and other senior officers were also present at the meeting.
