Punjab mandis to start paddy procurement from tomorrow as arhtiyas end strike
PTC Web Desk: Paddy procurement in Punjab mandis will commence on Tuesday following an agreement reached between the state government and arhtiyas (commission agents). This decision came after a crucial meeting between Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the arhtiyas’ association on Monday.
According to the arhtiyas' association, CM Bhagwant Mann assured them that their demands would be met. He further committed to raising their issues with the Central Government.
The meeting, chaired by Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, began at 12 noon and concluded at 2 pm, with discussions covering various issues faced by farmers. Present at the meeting were Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh, officials, and 52 members of the arhtiyas' association. One key demand of the arhtiyas was an increase in their commission fee of Rs 2.50 per quintal, which they consider insufficient given the rising costs.
CM Mann assured that this demand would be addressed, and he would bring the matter to the attention of the Central Government. The Centre has currently withheld around Rs 192 crore of arhtiya fees, which remains a pressing issue. The meeting also addressed the daily wage rates for labourers working in the mandis, with promises of a quick resolution.
The meeting also discussed the pending Rs 50 crore issue related to EPF (Employee Provident Fund). CM Mann said this matter would be resolved, and if necessary, the state was prepared to engage in a legal battle with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) over the issue. He reiterated his commitment to the arhtiyas, assuring that the state government is serious about resolving their grievances.
- With inputs from our correspondent
