Centre discriminating against Punjab: Minister

Punjab Minister for Medical Education, Research, Health and Family Welfare, Dr Balbir Singh, today expressed concern over the Centre’s “discriminatory treatment” towards the state. Reviewing paddy procurement process at Anaj Mandi, Sirhind Road, Patiala, the minister said the “Central Government’s indifference towards Punjab was proving detrimental to the state, particularly in timely lifting of foodgrain”.

Dr Balbir Singh expressed satisfaction over arrangements at the grain market, but emphasised that despite the demand for foodgrain in the country and at global level, the Centre had failed to lift the grain stockpiled in Punjab’s warehouses. “This has led to challenges in mandi operations. However, the Punjab government is pressing ahead with its efforts. We are consistently pressuring the Centre to resolve this issue,” he said.

Talking to the media, the Health Minister accused the Central Government of trying to undermine the time-honoured bond between Punjab’s farmers and commission agents by attempting to shut down Anaj Mandis. “The Punjab government stands with farmers, workers, millers and arhtiyas. We will not allow the Central Government’s autocratic decisions to prevail.”

The minister highlighted that for over two-and-a-half years, the Centre had blocked funds intended for Punjab Mandi Board, putting the state in significant difficulties.

Dr Balbir Singh also pointed out the disparity in treatment being given to Punjab vis-a-vis other states. He noted that trade was going on at ports in Gujarat and Maharashtra, while Punjab’s grain remains stranded due to export ban. This, he said, had led to huge losses to farmers and millers in the state.

Despite repeated requests from the Punjab government and other Cabinet ministers, the Central ministers have not even granted meetings to discuss these pressing issues.

During his visit, the Health Minister met with representatives of the arhtiya community and engaged with farmers at the mandi, assuring them of the government’s unwavering support. He said procurement centres had increased from 40 in last season to 109 this time, ensuring that every grain would be procured.