The Centre has reportedly committed to lifting 18 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of old grain stock stored in Punjab’s mandis by September 30. This agreement was announced by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann after a meeting with Union Food and Supplies Minister Pralhad Joshi in New Delhi. The decision is aimed at clearing storage space ahead of the anticipated bumper paddy crop season.

During the meeting, CM Mann requested the urgent removal of the old grain to prepare for the new crop arriving in October. He emphasised that collaboration between state and central authorities is crucial to ensure a smooth procurement process for farmers in Punjab.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the process of lifting the stock would be completed within the next 40 days, allowing procurement to begin as scheduled on October 1. He highlighted the importance of these arrangements for both local farmers and national food security.

Focus on Kharif Marketing Season

Punjab is projected to supply 170 lakh metric tonnes of good-quality rice this season. CM Mann underscored the necessity of having adequate storage facilities for the upcoming Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2025-26. He conveyed the urgency of arranging for the balance rice to be delivered to the Central Pool to meet national requirements.

The Chief Minister informed that Punjab’s State Procurement Agencies have successfully delivered 86 lakh metric tonnes of rice to the Food Corporation of India (FCI) thus far, despite ongoing storage limitations. He identified that timely actions to create storage space are essential for the successful transition into the next crop season.

CM Mann’s discussions with the Union Minister covered the significance of prompt preparations, noting that the creation of storage space would facilitate efficient deliveries of rice to the FCI. This, in turn, would also encourage rice millers to engage effectively in the upcoming season.

Additional Requests and State Preparations

In addition to discussing grain lifting, CM Mann urged the Centre to expedite the transfer of 27 lakh metric tonnes of wheat currently held at rice mills and mandis throughout Punjab. Efficient movement of these stocks is deemed vital to ensure adequate storage for incoming paddy during the Kharif Marketing Season 2026-27.

The Chief Minister conveyed that preparations are being made to guarantee a seamless procurement experience for the state’s farmers. He believes that the hard work of farmers in Punjab will result in another significant harvest, with a projected procurement of 180 lakh metric tonnes of paddy.

He reiterated the centrality of Punjab in contributing to the Centre’s initiatives, such as the Improved Rice Scheme, having already delivered over 11.70 lakh metric tonnes of improved rice to the FCI. In addition, the Chief Minister highlighted the collaborative efforts required to enhance storage capabilities and optimize the procurement process.

Also present during the meeting were Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr Ravi Bhagat, among other officials. They collectively underscored the vital role of efficient agricultural policies in maintaining the food supply chain in India.

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