Patiala District Gears Up for Wheat Procurement with Extensive Infrastructure
In preparation for the upcoming rabi procurement season, Patiala district has established a robust network of 108 mandis across the region. Additionally, the administration will set up 89 temporary purchase centers to facilitate the smooth arrival and handling of wheat. This season, an estimated 9.13 lakh metric tonnes of wheat is expected to be procured, slightly lower than the 9.21 lakh metric tonnes recorded last year.
Administrative Review and Directives for Procurement Operations
Deputy Commissioner Varjit Walia recently chaired a meeting at the District Administrative Complex to review the procurement arrangements, which are scheduled to commence on April 1. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), procurement agencies, arhtiyas, transporters, and labour contractors. Walia emphasized that agriculture serves as the backbone of Punjab's economy and highlighted the administration's proactive measures to ensure timely and efficient procurement of farmers' produce.
Walia issued specific directives to officials to guarantee the provision of essential facilities in the mandis. These include maintaining cleanliness, ensuring access to drinking water, functional toilets, adequate lighting, and robust security measures. He stressed that there should be no laxity in these arrangements, noting that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is personally monitoring the wheat procurement process across the state.
Ensuring Operational Efficiency and Farmer Support
To uphold operational standards, Walia instructed SDMs to conduct regular visits to the mandis and assess the ongoing arrangements. He further directed that weighing scales and moisture meters must be kept in proper working condition, with adequate provisions for tarpaulins, crates, and transportation logistics. In a call to farmers, Walia appealed for them to bring their wheat to the mandis in a dry and clean state, which will help secure the correct price for their crop and prevent any inconveniences during the procurement process.
District Food Supply Controller Ravinder Kaur provided an update, stating that preparations for labour, cartage, and transportation at all mandis are in their final stages. Procurement agencies have already completed the necessary arrangements to support a seamless procurement season. This comprehensive approach aims to bolster the agricultural sector and support the livelihoods of farmers in Patiala district.
