Punjab News: Punjab’s Food and Civil Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak announced on Friday that the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has assured the state that it will lift 15 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of foodgrain by the end of October, helping to clear space for new stocks of rice. This comes as the state’s godowns remain full, with 173 LMT of foodgrain, including 54 LMT of wheat from previous seasons, still stored across the state.
Though paddy procurement officially began on October 1, many rice millers are hesitant to accept fresh supplies due to overflowing storage facilities. However, Kataruchak assured there is no need for concern regarding space, as FCI’s plan will ensure a steady removal of rice stocks.
90 LMT Storage Space to Be Created by March 2024
The minister also revealed that approximately 90 LMT of additional storage space would be made available by March 2024. Meanwhile, FCI plans to remove 40 LMT of rice from Punjab’s godowns by December 31, further alleviating the pressure on storage.
Target for Paddy Procurement and Storage
Kataruchak emphasized that the state has been given a target of procuring 185 LMT of paddy for the central pool, with 123 LMT to be milled. Including 2 LMT of fortified rice kernels (FRK), Punjab will need storage space for a total of 125 LMT of rice.
Coordination with the Centre for Efficient Movement
Highlighting the persistent efforts of the AAP government in addressing the storage issue, Kataruchak said that the FCI will operate three trains this month to transport foodgrain from the state. Additionally, grain will be moved via containers to ensure there are no disruptions in the storage process.
The minister’s statements reflect confidence that Punjab’s storage capacities will be managed efficiently without any risk of space shortages.
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