Food Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak stated that Rs 33,000 crore has been credited to farmers' accounts during the kharif marketing season.
Punjab Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said on Friday that paddy procurement in the state has passed 150 lakh metric tonnes (LMT). According to The Tribune, paddy arrivals in the state's mandis have crossed 152 LMT during the current kharif marketing season.
Kataruchak noted that progressive lifting has gone beyond 110 LMT. He added that 84.65 per cent of the produce was lifted within 72 hours of being procured.
The minister said the state government has maintained smooth procurement operations in all mandis. He attributed the high levels of arrival and procurement to the confidence farmers have in the state's system.
Kataruchak stated that Rs 33,000 crore has been transferred to the accounts of farmers. He said special efforts are being made to speed up lifting so that mandis stay clear for new arrivals.
The minister reiterated that the government is committed to procuring every grain of produce and ensuring payments are made within the required timeframe.
