Jalandhar: After a slow start, 442 metric tonnes of paddy arrived in the markets.

Jalandhar: After a two-day lull, paddy procurement finally picked up in Jalandhar’s mandis on the third day of the season. A total of 442 metric tons of paddy arrived, of which 93 metric tons have been procured. However, a steady inflow is expected in the coming days. Activity resumed at the main grain market with the arrival of a few tractors and the presence of a few farmers. The slow start to the season is primarily attributed to weather delays. “I came hoping that my grain would be dry enough for procurement. There has been heavy rain this year, so the final decision will be made only after the commission agent inspects the condition of the paddy,” said Avtar Singh, a farmer from Mirpur village in Kartarpur. He also explained that some farmers are experiencing quality issues due to the recent rains. During the last procurement season, a total of 10,82,253 metric tons of paddy was procured in the district. To ensure smooth operations this year, the Deputy Commissioner has directed all departments and procurement agencies to maintain transparency and efficiency throughout the process. The Deputy Commissioner stated that essential facilities such as drinking water, electricity, lighting, sanitation, and toilets have been provided in 79 markets across the district. He urged farmers to bring their produce only after thoroughly drying it according to the required standards so that the procurement process can proceed without delay.