JALANDHAR
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal has urged farmers to bring only dry paddy with 17% or lower moisture content to the grain markets (mandis) for the upcoming procurement season. Chairing a meeting with officials, the DC emphasized that adherence to this guideline will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free procurement process across the district. Dr. Aggarwal said that combine harvesters will only be permitted to operate between 10 am and 6 pm, with strict action, including seizure, against violators. He assured farmers that the Punjab Government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to lifting every single grain of paddy without delay, provided that the crop meets the prescribed moisture norms. Reviewing preparations, the DC directed officials of Food, Civil Supplies, and Mandi Board to make comprehensive arrangements in all 78 grain markets and 28 temporary yards. He instructed that facilities such as cleanliness, drinking water, sheds, lighting, fans, and urinals must be ensured well in advance for the convenience of farmers. Highlighting the scale of operations, Dr. Aggarwal informed that around 10.80 lakh MT of paddy is expected to arrive this season. He reassured cultivators that elaborate measures will be in place to guarantee that their produce is procured promptly and without inconvenience.