Rain halts paddy buying, harvesting across state

The rainfall that lashed the state on Monday and Tuesday has brought paddy procurement and harvesting to a near standstill, leaving farmers anxious about the rising moisture content in their grains.

As per official data, grain markets across the state have so far recorded the arrival of 16,44,267 tonnes of paddy, of which 13,46,300 tonnes have been procured. In Karnal district, 2,76,521 tonnes have arrived and 2,31,891 tonnes have been procured. Kaithal has seen 3,17,871 tonnes arrive and 2,50,226 tonnes procured, while Kurukshetra has recorded 4,29,098 tonnes in arrivals and 3,91,356 tonnes procured.

However, heavy rainfall has soaked paddy lying in the open and halted harvesting in many areas. Sources said procurement agencies paused purchases as the moisture content exceeded the permissible limit.

Farmer leaders have blamed the authorities for poor planning and slow procurement.

“Every year, farmers face the same situation. Rice millers, in connivance with officials, either don’t procure paddy or buy it at throwaway prices citing high moisture,” said Yashbir, a farmer.

“I brought paddy to the market four days ago, but it hasn’t been procured. After the rain, it’s wet and we fear rejection,” said Naveen, another farmer.

“There were no proper covers for the crop. The tarpaulins were insufficient despite forecasts of rain,” added Yashbir Singh, a farmer from Karnal.

Farmers also reported crop flattening and grain discolouration in fields.

“The rainfall has damaged the crop and delayed harvesting,” said Vikrant Chaudhary of Manjura village.

Officials said efforts are underway to resume procurement.

“The process will restart once the weather clears and moisture levels drop,” said an official from the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department.