Punjab Goverment : To ensure hassle-free paddy procurement ahead of the Kharif season, a Group of Ministers led by Punjab Minister Gurmeet Khudian held an important meeting today with Federation of Aarthia Association of Punjab to discuss their demands and resolve concerns.
Punjab Goverment : The meeting, held at Punjab Bhawan, was attended by Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian and Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, who interacted with the association’s representatives led by President Vijay Kalra. The ministers assured the Aarthias that their genuine issues would be addressed promptly.
Responding to a major demand, Khudian announced that Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana-calibrated moisture meters will be installed in all grain markets to ensure standardised and accurate measurement of paddy moisture. The Aarthia Association also requested fixed combine harvesting hours from 10 am to 6 pm to help manage crop moisture levels more effectively.
Acknowledging the vital role of Aarthias in procurement, the ministers reiterated the state government’s commitment to their welfare. They also assured that basic facilities such as cleanliness, drinking water, sheds, and electricity would be in place before the procurement season begins.
The association thanked Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for recently approving a 10% hike in mandi labour charges, terming it a significant relief.
Senior officials including Agriculture Secretary Dr. Basant Garg, Punjab Mandi Board Secretary Ramvir, PUNSUP MD Sonali Giri, and Food & Civil Supplies Director Varinder Kumar Sharma were also present.