Manual scales still dominate Karnal grain markets despite govt ban

Despite the Haryana Government’s directive mandating the use of digital weighing machines for paddy procurement, most commission agents (arhtiyas) in Karnal grain markets continue to rely on manual scales. Farmers allege that this practice results in under-weighing of their produce, leading to financial losses during the crucial harvest season.

A visit to the grain mandis of Karnal, Gharaunda, Indri, Kunjpura, Taraori, Nissing, Nigdhu, and Assandh revealed that digital machines are yet to be widely adopted. Farmers say they have repeatedly staged protests demanding immediate enforcement of the rules.

“Some arhtiyas and rice millers are hand in glove, and to cheat the farmers they do not use digital weighing machines. We demand the government to take immediate action against such arhtiyas,” said Bhadur Singh Mehla, spokesperson of BKU (Sir Chhotu Ram).

Farmer leader Jagdeep Aulakh echoed the sentiment: “We demand the implementation of the directions of the government. Only digital machines can save farmers from cheating.”

On condition of anonymity, one commission agent admitted, “With manual scales, some agents cheat the farmers. Digital machines would remove all doubts and ensure accountability.”

However, commission agents cite operational hurdles. “Labourers are not trained to use these machines, and there are issues with battery backup. Some arhtiyas have already placed orders for digital scales, but installation is still pending,” explained Rajnish Chaudhary, president of the Karnal Arhtiyas Association.

Authorities, however, maintain that no laxity will be tolerated. Deputy Commissioner Uttam Singh has issued a strict warning to mandi secretaries and arhtiyas. “The use of mechanical scales will not be tolerated. Arhtiyas must install digital weighing machines immediately, or strict action will be taken as per the law,” he said. Singh stressed that transparent weighing of farmers’ crops was crucial to protect their rights.

Market committee secretary Asha Rani also assured farmers that the situation will improve soon. “After Dasehra, almost all arhtiyas will have digital machines,” she said.

For now, the delay in adopting computerised weighing systems continues to frustrate farmers, who insist that only strict enforcement can ensure fairness and restore trust in the procurement process.