Paddy arrivals begin in Ambala, farmers await procurement

Paddy farmers have been waiting for the government to begin the procurement at MSP, with the arrivals starting at various grain markets of Ambala. The farmers, who have been reporting a drop in the yield, said the weather had been uncertain and the government should procure the produce without any further delay to protect them from further losses.

The procurement begins from October 1, however, the farmers have been demanding procurement from September 15. Following the request by CM Nayab Singh Saini, the Central government has allowed the commencement of procurement prior to the scheduled date.

A farmer from Gazipur village, Tarsem Lal, who arrived at the Ambala City grain market with his produce, said, “Against the yield of nearly 35 quintal per acre, the yield this year is around 20-22 quintal. The Southern Rice Black Streaked Dwarf Virus has badly affected the crop, and even after spending a huge amount on insecticides, the results were poor. Though the government purchase is yet to begin, we have no option but to leave the produce with commission agents.”

Charna Ram, another farmer, said, “The weather has been uncertain and we can’t leave the matured crop in fields in wait for agencies to enter the market for procurement. The higher cost of production and lower yield has hit the farmers.”

Gulab Singh Punia, district youth president of BKU (Charuni), said, “The farmers have already suffered losses this year, and the government should ensure that the produce is procured timely. It has been decided to hold a one-day fast on Thursday at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in support of the demand.”

Over 8,750 quintals of stock has arrived at the Ambala City grain market.

Dalel Singh, secretary of the grain market, said, “The farmers have said there is a drop in the yield this year and it will have an impact on the total arrivals in the grain market. Last year the total arrivals were around 14.42 lakh quintals. The arrangements are in place and the procurement will begin as per the directions from the government.”

Deputy Director Agriculture, Ambala, Dr Jasvinder Saini said, “Besides the virus, untimely rain and waterlogging in fields have affected the yield. The paddy crop has suffered loss during the flowering stage and the farmers have been reporting an average yield of 20-22 quintals, while last year, the yield was 34-35 quintals per acre. The harvesting is expected to be at its peak around October 1.”