Centre Commits to Establishing 40 Lakh MT Rice Storage in Punjab by December 2024

The Indian government has committed to establishing 40 lakh metric tonnes of storage by December 2024 to aid rice delivery for the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2024-25, according to a senior official. Punjab's Food and Civil Supplies Department Secretary, Vikas Garg, conveyed this assurance to Food Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak. The Centre's response follows Punjab's request for adequate storage space for the upcoming season.

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Storage and Movement Plans

The Centre has also promised to facilitate the movement of 15 lakh metric tonnes by the end of October 2024. Minister Kataruchak instructed the department to work closely with the Food Corporation of India and the Department of Food and Public Distribution. This collaboration aims to ensure that sufficient storage is available for rice delivery during KMS 2024-25.

Punjab anticipates procuring 185 lakh metric tonnes of paddy starting from October 1, 2024. The state's chief secretary recently communicated with the central government's Department of Food and Public Distribution. The letter requested that 20 lakh metric tonnes of rice or wheat be relocated from covered spaces in Punjab.

Preventing Illegal Paddy Movement

Minister Kataruchak also emphasized the need for coordination with police forces at interstate borders. This measure aims to prevent illegal recycled paddy from entering Punjab during the Kharif marketing season. Ensuring that only legitimate produce is procured is a priority for the state government.

The state government is fully prepared to provide farmers with a smooth procurement process once again. Efforts are being made to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place for an efficient and effective procurement season.