PHAGWARA: Paddy procurement in Kapurthala district has gathered significant pace, with more than 93 percent of the crop arriving at mandis already purchased. According to official figures, as of yesterday, a total of 7, 705 metric tonnes (MT) of paddy had arrived in the district’s 42 procurement centers, out of which 7, 127 MT has been procured by government agencies.
Deputy Commissioner Amit Kumar Panchal said that robust arrangements have been made to ensure smooth and transparent procurement operations. He added that adequate quantities of gunny bags are available, and special provisions have been put in place for farmers’ convenience. Payments to farmers are being processed without delay, with ₹12.6 crore already transferred directly into their bank accounts.
Among the procurement agencies, Markfed has purchased 2, 838 MT, PUNGRAIN 2, 831 MT, PUNSUP 979 MT, and the Punjab State Warehousing Corporation 207 MT. The Deputy Commissioner urged farmers to adopt sustainable practices by harvesting their crop using super SMS-fitted combines, which help reduce stubble burning and protect the environment.
He further advised farmers to bring only dry paddy to the mandis to avoid complications during procurement and to ensure fair trade. To minimize moisture levels in the crop, harvesting has been recommended strictly between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
The Deputy Commissioner assured that the administration remains committed to safeguarding farmers’ interests while maintaining efficiency in the procurement process.