Punjab Farmers Protest Over Delays in Paddy Procurement

On October 13, 2024, Punjab witnessed a mass demonstration of disagreement as farmers blocked the streets and railway tracks, asserting their need for the timely purchase of their paddy crop. The protest was planned by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), and attracted the attention of large crowds in several cities, including Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Hoshiarpur, where roads and railway lines were obstructed for hours. This protest sheds light on a common issue during the kharif season, where delays in government-led procurement leave farmers frustrated and financially burdened.

The Context of the Protest

From October to March, the months are owned by the Kharif for its high demand in the market, serving as a critical duration for Punjab’s agriculture . Paddy, the staple crop, is sold by farmers to state agencies who purchase it at the government-set Minimum Support Price (MSP). This guarantees farmer’s financial stability, regardless of fluctuating market conditions. However, the delays in the acquisition process of crops this year have made it difficult for farmers to sell their farming output. Farmers debate that the slower-than-expected purchase rate is leading to overcrowding at state mandis (markets), where grain is piling up due to logistical and administrative lags.

SKM’s protest targeted both the central and state governments, which are jointly responsible for smooth procurement. The state government’s Food and Supplies Department, which coordinates with central agencies like the Food Corporation of India (FCI), has acknowledged the delay but cited logistical challenges, including inadequate storage and workforce limitations, as contributing factors.

The Impact on Farmers

Delayed procurement has direct financial and logistical impacts on Punjab’s farmers, who rely heavily on seasonal income. Paddy, a staple crop, requires timely harvesting, drying, and processing to retain quality. When left unsold in mandis, the grain quality deteriorates, which can lead to financial losses and cause payment delays from government agencies. With increasing operational costs, such as labor and transportation, farmers are further pressured by the delay. Protest leaders emphasized that this delay puts farmers in debt, as they struggle to cover their daily expenses while waiting for procurement payments.

Blocking Roads and Railways

Farmers were vocal about their frustrations, which manifested in blockades across highways and railways. Roads in key cities like Jalandhar and Ludhiana experienced long traffic jams, while railway tracks in locations such as Hoshiarpur were blocked, impacting transportation. The Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta Ugrahan) held a “rail roko” protest in nearly 17 locations across Punjab, while SKM organized a statewide road blockade from noon until 3 p.m. Police were present to reroute traffic, and temporary diversions were set up, but the disruptions affected daily commuters significantly​.

Calls for Immediate Action

Farmer leaders demanded immediate improvements in the procurement process and warned of further intensification of protests if the situation does not improve. Many called for prompt action from the central and state governments to ensure an efficient and transparent system for paddy purchase. They expressed a commitment to continue voicing their demands until they see effective solutions implemented.

This protest highlights ongoing challenges faced by India’s farmers and signals potential for further unrest if the government fails to address procurement inefficiencies that disrupt agricultural livelihoods.

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