Punjab heading for bumper wheat crop of 124 lakh metric tons, says minister

IANS April 4, 2025 320 views

Punjab is preparing for an exceptional wheat harvest with a targeted procurement of 124 lakh metric tons this season. The state government has strategically established 1,864 purchase centers to support over eight lakh farmers. Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak has ensured smooth procurement by arranging financial credits and promising prompt payments. The comprehensive plan demonstrates Punjab's commitment to supporting its agricultural community and ensuring food security.

"Punjab is set to witness a bumper wheat crop this year" - Lal Chand Kataruchak, Punjab Food Minister
Punjab heading for bumper wheat crop of 124 lakh metric tons, says minister
Chandigarh, April 4: Saying Punjab is heading for a bumper wheat crop, state Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak on Friday stressed the government has made preparations to facilitate over eight lakh farmers during the ongoing wheat procurement season.

Key Points

1

Government secures Rs 28,894 crore credit for wheat procurement

2

1,864 purchase centres established across Punjab

3

Minimum support price set at Rs 2,425 per quintal

4

Payments promised within 24 hours of procurement

After chairing a review meeting with officials from four districts - Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Kataruchak told the media that Punjab "is set to witness a bumper wheat crop this year with a target procurement of 124 lakh metric tons".

He said the government has already secured a cash credit limit of Rs 28,894 crore for wheat procurement, and 99 per cent of the required ‘bardana’ (sacks) has been arranged, alongside sufficient space and crates for efficient storage.

To cater to the massive arrival of crops, the government has established 1,864 purchase centres (mandis) across the state, where farmers can sell their wheat. In light of the bumper crop, around 600 temporary purchase centres have also been set up.

Kataruchak assured the farmers that they would receive payments within 24 hours of procurement, with the government setting the minimum support price (MSP) at Rs 2,425 per quintal.

Disclosing district-specific procurement targets, he said over 3.14 lakh metric tons of wheat is expected to arrive in Hoshiarpur, while Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar will contribute 5.25 lakh metric tons, 3.61 lakh metric tons, and 2.64 lakh metric tons, respectively.

The minister emphasised the government’s commitment to purchasing every single grain brought by farmers, stressing that no negligence would be tolerated in the procurement process.

He highlighted the government’s efforts over the past three years to streamline wheat and paddy procurement operations. In the review meeting, Kataruchak also examined facilities for farmers, including cleanliness, drinking water availability, lighting, and sheds at the marketing yards. He directed the officials to remain present in their respective 'mandis' throughout the season to ensure farmers face no hardships during this period.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is great news for Punjab farmers! 🎉 After last year's challenges, a bumper crop with proper procurement arrangements will really help our agricultural community. The 24-hour payment promise is especially reassuring.
P
Priya S.
I appreciate the government's efforts but hope they've really prepared enough storage facilities this time. Last year we saw some wheat going to waste due to improper storage. The numbers look promising though!
H
Harpreet M.
My father is a farmer in Kapurthala and he's been working so hard this season. Glad to hear about all the purchase centers and the MSP guarantee. Fingers crossed everything goes smoothly at the mandis 🤞
A
Amarjeet B.
124 lakh metric tons is impressive! But I wonder if the government has considered the environmental impact of such intensive wheat farming. Maybe we should start diversifying crops to preserve soil health.
N
Neetu R.
The attention to mandi facilities like drinking water and cleanliness is a good step. Farmers deserve dignity while selling their produce. Hope this becomes standard practice across all seasons.
G
Gurpreet S.
As someone from Hoshiarpur, I'm happy to see our district's contribution being specifically mentioned. Our farmers work tirelessly - they deserve this recognition and support. 🌾

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Punjab Wheat Crop Agricultural Procurement Lal Chand Kataruchak Minimum Support Price Indian Agriculture
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