Delegation of farmers, arthias, rice millers call on Deputy Commissioner

 Raises issues of early procurement of Basmati in Majha besides fixation of MSP

Amritsar, Sept. 15 (Punjab Post Bureau) – A delegation of farmers, arthias, rice-millers today called on Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ravi Bhagat seeking solutions of their issues pertaining to early purchase of Basmati 1509 and fixation of its MSP. Mr. Bhagat assured the delegation to resolve their issues soon.

The delegation demanded that the procurement of Basmati 1509 should be started 15 days prior to the slated schedule of procurement from October 1, 2015. They said that the Minimum Support Price should also be fixed for basmati to facilitate farmers. The president of Jamhoori Kisan Sabha, Punjab Dr. Satnam Singh Ajnala said in view of basmati growing area, the state should start early procurement of basmati in this region from September 15.

The farmers also raised the issue of non-availability of J-forms and said that they had not been provided these form by some traders. They also said the procurement agencies should also be remained present in the mandis at the time of basmati purchase.

After hearing the issues related to procurement, Deputy Commissioner assured the delegation that he will take up the issues with Additional Chief Secretary (Development) to resolve the issues as soon as possible. He also directed all procurement agencies of Amritsar and Tarn Taran districts on the spot to ensure hassle-free procurement besides facilitating farmers, arthias with needful facilities.

Prominent amongst those present in the meeting included office bearers of Arthias Association including Narinder Singh Behl, President of Association, Chief Agriculture Officers of Amritsar and Tarn Taran, District Mandi Officer etc.