Punjab Minister Dr Balbir Singh has criticized the Centre for discriminatory practices during the paddy procurement process.
Dr. Balbir Singh, Punjab’s Minister for Medical Education, Research, Health, and Family Welfare, voiced strong concerns over the Central Government’s “discriminatory treatment” towards the state during his visit to review the paddy procurement process at Anaj Mandi on Sirhind Road in Patiala. The minister pointed out that the Centre’s indifferent approach was causing significant difficulties, especially regarding the timely lifting of foodgrain from Punjab’s warehouses, which in turn was affecting mandi operations across the state.
Concerns Over Paddy Procurement and Central Indifference
During his visit, Dr. Balbir Singh expressed satisfaction with the current arrangements at the grain market but emphasized that despite high demand for foodgrain both domestically and globally, the Centre had not adequately facilitated the lifting of grain stored in Punjab’s warehouses. This lack of action has resulted in logistical challenges in mandis, creating bottlenecks in the procurement process.
- Impact on Mandi Operations: The delay in lifting stockpiled grain has disrupted the efficient functioning of grain markets, putting strain on procurement timelines.
- Increased Procurement Centers: To address the issue, the Punjab government increased the number of procurement centers from 40 last season to 109 this time, aiming to ensure that every grain produced by farmers is procured.
Allegations of Undermining Farmers and Commission Agents
Talking to the media, Dr. Balbir Singh accused the Central Government of attempting to undermine the traditional bond between Punjab’s farmers and commission agents (arhtiyas). He suggested that the Centre’s policies seemed to be aimed at shutting down Anaj Mandis, which have been an integral part of the state’s agricultural system for decades.
- Support for Farmers and Arhtiyas: The minister reaffirmed the Punjab government’s commitment to standing with farmers, workers, millers, and arhtiyas against what he described as “autocratic decisions” by the Centre.
- Government’s Stance: “The Central Government’s autocratic decisions will not be tolerated. The Punjab government is in solidarity with our farmers and will persist in supporting them,” stated Dr. Balbir Singh.
Financial Blockades and Fund Withholding
Dr. Balbir Singh highlighted that for more than two-and-a-half years, the Central Government had withheld funds that were meant for the Punjab Mandi Board. This has placed the state in a precarious financial situation, hindering the execution of various agricultural and infrastructure projects.
- Fund Blockages: The withholding of funds has adversely affected the state’s ability to maintain mandi infrastructure, impacting the procurement and distribution processes.
- Call for Action: The minister called on the Centre to release the funds owed to Punjab, which are essential for supporting the state’s agricultural sector.
Disparity in Treatment Compared to Other States
The minister pointed out the disparity in how Punjab is treated compared to other states like Gujarat and Maharashtra. While trade activities continue at ports in those states, Punjab’s grain remains stranded due to an export ban imposed by the Centre, leading to significant financial losses for the state’s farmers and millers.
- Export Ban Impact: The export ban has resulted in Punjab’s grain being stuck in warehouses, while other states are allowed to continue trading without similar restrictions.
- Economic Losses: The delay in export clearance has led to substantial losses for farmers and millers who are unable to sell their produce in international markets.
Efforts to Resolve the Issue
Despite repeated efforts by the Punjab government, including appeals from multiple Cabinet ministers, the Central Government has not responded favorably. According to Dr. Balbir Singh, requests for meetings with Central ministers to discuss these pressing issues have been ignored, further aggravating the situation.
- Punjab Government’s Persistent Efforts: The Punjab government continues to put pressure on the Centre to lift the grain from Punjab’s warehouses and resolve the export ban issue.
- Engagement with Farmers and Arhtiyas: During his visit, Dr. Balbir Singh met with representatives of the arhtiya community and farmers at the mandi, assuring them of the government’s unwavering support.
Increased Procurement Centers to Address Grain Procurement Issues
To facilitate smoother procurement operations, the Punjab government has increased the number of procurement centers in the state from 40 last season to 109 this year. This move is intended to expedite the procurement process and ensure that every grain produced by farmers is procured without delay.
- Better Accessibility: The expansion of procurement centers is expected to reduce congestion at grain markets and make the procurement process more efficient.
- Commitment to Farmers: The minister reassured farmers that the state government remains dedicated to addressing their needs and mitigating any adverse effects caused by Central policies.
Dr. Balbir Singh’s remarks underscore the growing frustration within Punjab regarding the Central Government’s policies, which are perceived as discriminatory and detrimental to the state’s agricultural sector. As the Punjab government continues to advocate for fair treatment and the timely lifting of foodgrain, the minister’s visit to Anaj Mandi serves as a reaffirmation of the state’s commitment to its farmers, workers, and the traditional mandi system. The ongoing situation calls for prompt resolution by the Centre to alleviate the challenges faced by Punjab’s agricultural community.
The article captures the key concerns and developments surrounding the issue of paddy procurement in Punjab, emphasizing the state government’s stance. Let me know if you need more modifications or specific details!
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