Ludhiana tops Punjab in paddy lifting

Ludhiana district has emerged as the top performer in Punjab in lifting paddy from the mandis. Both the circles — Ludhiana East and Ludhiana West — have surpassed all other districts in the state ensuring maximum lifting, bringing much relief to farmers.

Ludhiana East has recorded 108.12 per cent lifting, while Ludhiana West has achieved 105.67 per cent — the highest figures in Punjab so far.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Himanshu Jain told The Tribune that the administration was working round the clock to ensure smooth lifting of the grain.

“It is our priority that farmers do not suffer. I personally monitor the arrival and lifting on a daily basis,” said Jain.

DFSC (East) Shefali Chopra said that 10,06,652 metric tonnes of paddy have arrived in mandis of Ludhiana district, of which 9,83,432 metric tonnes have been lifted by various agencies.

She added Rs 2,173 crore already has been credited into farmers’ accounts for the procured paddy.

Though harvesting in the district had initially started late and at a slower pace, it has now picked up rapidly as compared to other districts of Punjab.

The DC had earlier directed officials that no delay in procurement would be tolerated and that farmers must not face inconvenience from arhtiyas or government agencies.