Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Announces New Wheat Procurement Strategy Amid Commission Agent Strike
In a significant move to ensure a seamless wheat procurement season, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared on Saturday that the state government has implemented alternative arrangements by engaging cooperative societies. This announcement was made during a rally in Moga, where Mann emphasized the government's commitment to farmers, stating, "Every single grain of the farmers will be procured."
Enhanced Role for Cooperative Societies in Procurement Process
The state administration has compiled comprehensive lists of primary agricultural credit societies across the region to facilitate this initiative. According to Mann, societies already functioning as commission agents will see an expansion of their powers, while others will be newly authorized to manage procurement operations. This strategic shift is a direct response to the ongoing strike by a section of arhtiyas, or commission agents, which the chief minister labeled as an attempt to blackmail the state government.
Addressing Arhtiya Grievances and Commission Rate Disputes
Mann clarified that the grievances of the arhtiyas regarding commission rates fall under the jurisdiction of the central government, not the state. He noted that his administration has already organized multiple meetings between the agents and central authorities to advocate for their demands. Currently, agents receive a commission of Rs 50.75 per quintal, but they are demanding 2.5% of the total value of procured grains, which equates to Rs 64.62 per quintal.
In a pointed remark, Mann criticized the arhtiyas for meeting with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, suggesting that those dissatisfied with Punjab's system should consider conducting business in Haryana instead. To incentivize cooperation, the CM announced that agents who continue to work during this season will be given priority in the next paddy procurement cycle and preferred for custom milling opportunities.
Launch of Fast-Track Land Dispute Resolution Scheme
In a parallel effort to support rural families, Chief Minister Mann introduced a new scheme aimed at resolving land division disputes. He promised that the process of dividing family landholdings would now be completed within a strict 30-day timeframe. Mann urged the public to utilize this fast-track service to settle long-standing disagreements efficiently, highlighting the government's focus on rural welfare and administrative efficiency.
Political Rhetoric and Folk Rhyme Targeting Opponents
Demonstrating his signature style, CM Bhagwant Mann recited a new "kikli"—a traditional Punjabi folk rhyme—to mock his political opponents. The rhyme insinuated that Sukhbir Badal has lost his mental balance and political relevance, while claiming that the influence of the brother-in-law from Majitha has diminished due to the state's crackdown on the sale of chitta. Mann concluded by asserting that the Shiromani Akali Dal's power had been "snatched by God" as a consequence of their past actions, reinforcing his administration's stance against corruption and political rivals.
