Punjab Procures 61 Lakh Metric Tonnes of Paddy, ₹13,073 Crore Paid to Farmers: CM Bhagwant Mann

Mohali, October 23: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced that the state has procured 61.01 lakh metric tonnes of paddy so far this season and disbursed ₹13,073 crore to farmers. He urged the Central Government to relax paddy procurement norms in view of the flood damage that affected large parts of the state’s farmland.

During his visits to the grain markets of Bassi Pathana and Morinda, the Chief Minister reviewed ongoing procurement operations and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to purchasing and lifting every grain produced by farmers.

Mann said that severe floods had caused widespread crop damage, increasing the moisture content and discoloration in the harvested paddy. Considering this, he appealed to the Centre to provide immediate relief by relaxing the existing procurement standards. “I have already requested the Central Government to fulfill this crucial demand of our farmers,” he added.

Despite the heavy losses caused by floods, Punjab is expected to contribute 170 lakh metric tonnes of paddy to the national food reserves this year. Mann said 1,822 procurement centers have been notified across the state for the 2025–26 Kharif marketing season, ensuring smooth and efficient operations under the supervision of the Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Department.

Addressing the media, the Chief Minister said that of the 63.49 lakh metric tonnes of paddy that arrived in markets, 61.01 lakh metric tonnes have already been purchased. He noted that 91.8 percent of the stock has been lifted within 72 hours of procurement, while payments are being made to farmers within 24 hours.

Mann said the government’s efforts have ensured that procurement remains smooth and hassle-free across mandis. “Every possible step is being taken to ensure farmers face no difficulty while selling their crops,” he emphasized.

Taking aim at the Centre, Mann criticized the federal government for what he described as “stepmotherly treatment” towards Punjab during its time of crisis. He said the state has yet to receive the ₹1,600 crore in flood relief announced by the Prime Minister. “Punjab, known as the nation’s food bowl and sword arm, deserves better,” he said.

The Chief Minister reiterated that health, education, electricity, water, and infrastructure remain the five key priorities of his government. Highlighting progress, he mentioned the establishment of “Schools of Eminence” across Punjab to ensure quality education. So far, 265 students from these schools have qualified for JEE Mains, 44 for JEE Advanced, and 848 for NEET.

Mann added that 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics have been opened in the past three years, providing free medicines to 1.75 crore people, with the number soon to cross 1,000 clinics. He also said that 90 percent of Punjab households now receive zero electricity bills, reflecting the government’s commitment to public welfare and sectoral reform.

He further revealed that President Droupadi Murmu would be formally invited to attend the state’s commemorative programs marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The series of state-organized events, mainly to be held in Sri Anandpur Sahib, will honor the Guru’s supreme sacrifice for humanity, secularism, and freedom of faith.