343 MT procured in Sangrur mandis

The arrival of paddy in the grain markets and purchase centres of the Sangrur district is progressing at a very slow, while green plants of paddy can still be seen in the fields in different parts of the district.

Besides, the farmers are trying to avoid bringing paddy with moisture content over the permissible limit of 17 per cent to the grain markets and purchase centres.

As per official information, Markfed had purchased only eight metric tonnes (MT) of paddy in the district till October 7, while 335 MT of paddy was purchased on October 8 by the government agencies in the district. Thus, a total of 343 MT of paddy was purchased by the government procurement agencies till yesterday evening in Sangrur district.

Meanwhile, 726 MT of unsold paddy was reportedly lying in the grain markets of the district till last evening.

Registering increase in the pace of procurement, Markfed had purchased 233 MT of paddy till yesterday evening, followed by 50 MT each by Pungrain and PUNSUP and 10 MT by the Warehouse Corporation. However, the FCI had not procured any paddy till yesterday.

Pardeep Singla, an arhtiya from the Sangrur grain market, said for the first time, auction of paddy was conducted by the Pungrain in local grain market on October 8. The arrival of paddy in small quantities has started in the Sangrur grain market, while the arrival in larger quantities is likely to start in the coming days.

The arhtiya said, however, farmers might face a tough time in selling their produce if they bring wet paddy to the purchase centres or grain markets.