Punjab government bans open paddy purchase from 12th November to prevent fraud. New rules include Deputy Commissioner approval and mandatory photo verification at mandis to ensure transparency for farmers.
In a significant development for farmers in Punjab, the state government has announced that open purchase of paddy (jhone) will be banned from 12th November. The decision aims to curb fraudulent or bogus paddy purchases, ensuring that only genuine produce enters the procurement system. Alongside the ban, the government has also introduced strict new conditions for paddy procurement.
According to directives issued by the Food and Supplies Department’s Principal Secretary, paddy purchase at procurement centers will now require prior approval from the Deputy Commissioner. This new rule is expected to enhance oversight and accountability in the state’s paddy procurement process.
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Photo Verification Mandatory at Mandis
Under the new guidelines, it is now mandatory for farmers, procurement agency inspectors, and Mandi Board supervisors to take a group photo near the paddy stock or sacks at the time of purchase. This measure aims to prevent fraudulent transactions and maintain transparency in the procurement system.
Tackling Fraudulent Paddy Purchases
Authorities suspect that cheaper paddy from neighboring states is being illegally sold to government agencies in Punjab. The new rules are expected to act as a deterrent against such fraudulent practices and protect the interests of genuine farmers.
Current Paddy Procurement Status
Paddy procurement in Punjab officially started on 15th September, but due to heavy rains and floods, the crop only reached the mandis from October onwards. So far, 14.931 million metric tons of paddy have been procured, against an expected total crop yield of 15.5 million metric tons.
New Procurement Process
From 12th November onwards, if paddy is to be procured in any district, the District Mandi Officer must forward the case to the Deputy Commissioner (DC). The DC will then deploy an SDM or Executive Magistrate to oversee the procurement process at the mandi, ensuring transparency and strict monitoring.
This new initiative demonstrates Punjab government’s commitment to protecting farmers’ interests, preventing fraud, and maintaining a fair and transparent paddy procurement system.
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