Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain on Monday directed officials to make foolproof arrangements in all grain markets across the district to ensure smooth and timely wheat procurement without any inconvenience to farmers, labourers, and commission agents. Presiding over a review meeting held at Bachat Bhawan, the Deputy Commissioner reiterated the Punjab government’s firm commitment, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, to procure every single grain brought by farmers.
He said elaborate arrangements have already been put in place to facilitate farmers during the ongoing procurement season. Jain emphasised that proper cleanliness, drinking water, and seating facilities must be ensured at all mandis to provide comfort to visiting farmers.
He instructed officials to maintain high standards of hygiene and basic amenities in every grain market. The Deputy Commissioner informed that 8,16,473 metric tonnes of wheat is expected to arrive in 109 mandis of the district this season.
He directed all procurement agencies Markfed, Food Corporation of India (FCI), PUNGRAIN, PUNSUP, Warehousing Corporation, Punjab Mandi Board, and the Food and Civil Supplies Department to ensure adequate availability of gunny bags and other essential logistics.
Jain also asked all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) to personally monitor the procurement process in their respective jurisdictions and take immediate corrective measures if any shortcomings are noticed.