Punjab: 98% of wheat arrivals procured

TNN | May 4, 2020, 09:42 IST

A driver attempts to control an overloaded tractor during the ongoing Covid-19 lockdown in Bathinda on Sunday

CHANDIGARH: Punjab government on Sunday claimed to have procured nearly 98% of wheat of the total arrival so far despite challenges posed by the Covid-19 lockdown. Additional chief secretary Viswajeet Khanna said 85.28 lakh metric tonnes of wheat has been procured out of the 86.90 LMT arrival in mandis so far.
He expressed satisfaction over procurement of nearly 65% out of the estimated target of 135 LMT within just 18 days since April 15. Khanna said among all districts, Sangrur tops with arrival of 8.16 LMT, which is almost 10% of the total arrival in the state. Of this, 8.05% has been procured till date.
Khanna said Patiala and Bathinda district rank second and third with arrival of 6.87 LMT and 6.80 LMT respectively. Notwithstanding the staggered arrival of wheat in mandis across the state, Khanna stated that though it has marginally affected its pace amid Covid-19 lockdown, but the tempo of wheat arrival has been maintained through the pass system.
He said strict compliance of health protocol has been ensured for smooth and hassle-free procurement as well as safety and well- being of all stakeholders. He said 11.17 lakh passes have been given to farmers through arthiyas .