Hoshiarpur/Daljeet Ajnoha/August 8 : As per the directives of the Punjab Government, the district administration has reviewed all necessary arrangements in grain markets to ensure that the upcoming Kharif season’s paddy procurement is smooth, timely, and transparent. This year, it is estimated that around 4,36,000 metric tonnes of paddy will be procured in Hoshiarpur district.
Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain stated that cleanliness in markets, installation of fans, availability of gunny bags, transportation arrangements, and payment systems are being streamlined. She added that for the convenience of farmers, drinking water facilities, rest sheds, and adequate deployment of staff will be ensured at procurement centers.
She made a special appeal to farmers of the district to bring their paddy to the grain markets only after drying it properly to the prescribed moisture level (below 17 percent). This will not only maintain the quality of paddy but also speed up the procurement process without any delays. Excess moisture in paddy may cause delays in procurement, leading to unnecessary inconvenience for farmers.
The Deputy Commissioner assured that the Punjab Government and the district administration are committed to providing all possible facilities and support to farmers. Adequate representatives of government agencies will be present at procurement centers to address farmers’ queries or problems immediately. In addition, to expedite the payment process, online banking will be used so that payments are transferred directly to farmers’ accounts.
She advised all farmers to bring their paddy to the grain markets according to their turn, avoid unnecessary crowding and waiting, and actively cooperate in the procurement process. She assured that the administration will take full precautions to maintain security, discipline, and cleanliness in the grain markets.
Deputy Commissioner Jain added that with the cooperation of farmers, the paddy procurement season can be successfully completed. All arrangements will be made in advance so that farmers face no inconvenience and the procurement process is carried out in an organized and transparent manner.
