AAP Delegation Urges Punjab Governor to Intervene for Faster Rice Stock Evacuation

A delegation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) met Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Monday. They sought his help in urging the central government to speed up the removal of rice stock from Punjab. Harpal Singh Cheema, Finance Minister and senior AAP leader, led the delegation. He explained that delays by the central government in lifting rice have caused problems with paddy procurement in grain markets.

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The delegation also raised concerns about low rice yields from paddy, urging the Governor to seek an immediate solution from the union government. Cheema was joined by ministers Harjot Singh Bains and Hardeep Singh Mundian during this meeting. Despite efforts by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other officials, including letters and meetings with central ministers, the issue remains unresolved.

Punjab's Contribution to Central Food Reserves

Cheema highlighted that Punjab's farmers contribute significantly to India's food reserves, providing 40% of wheat and 22% of rice to the central pool. He emphasised that Punjab has long been known as India's food bowl, and it is unfair to ignore the rights of its farmers. The state's consistent contribution to central food reserves underscores their hard work.

Cheema accused the BJP-led Union Government of punishing Punjab's farmers for opposing the now-repealed farm laws. He claimed that there is an attempt to defame farmers, commission agents, and rice shellers in the state. The Punjab government stands firmly with its farmers, with ministers visiting grain markets to expedite paddy procurement.

Challenges Faced by Rice Millers

Paddy lifting from mandis in Punjab faced disruptions after state rice millers refused to mill paddy until their demands were met. The millers expressed concerns over the out-turn ratio post-milling yield of PR-126 and other hybrid varieties, fearing significant losses. They also demanded evacuation of wheat and rice stock to create space for new crops.

On Sunday, a delegation of Punjab BJP leaders met with the governor, submitting a memorandum alleging inefficiency by the AAP government in handling paddy lifting. Cheema expressed hope that Governor Kataria would advocate strongly for Punjab's case with the Centre, seeking a swift resolution to these pressing issues.

Chief Minister Mann also met Union Minister J P Nadda regarding a fertiliser shortage in Punjab, urging quick action. The ongoing challenges highlight the need for effective coordination between state and central governments to support Punjab's agricultural sector.