With Punjab preparing to procure a record 190 lakh metric tonnes of paddy in the upcoming Kharif marketing season, the states Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak has issued strict directives to the department for ensuring foolproof arrangements by September 15 — a full two weeks ahead of the procurement season scheduled to begin on October 1.   Significantly, in a clear message underscoring the urgency and scale of the exercise, the Minister has directed that no officer will be allowed to proceed on Ex-India leave between September 15 and November 15 — the peak period of procurement operations. The move is aimed at maintaining administrative readiness and accountability throughout the crucial season, which involves massive logistical coordination and public interface.   Kataruchak, chairing a high-level review meeting, emphasized that the procurement drive must be smooth, transparent, and hassle-free for farmers. He urged all stakeholders to approach the exercise with a mission-mode mindset and warned that no laxity will be tolerated in any aspect of planning or execution.   Officials informed the Minister that preparations are already underway on war footing. From October 2024 to June 2025, the State moved 68 LMT of rice out of Punjab to create storage space. From August 2025 to June 2026, an additional 82.5 LMT will be transported at a monthly rate of 7.5 LMT, ensuring readiness for incoming stocks.   The Custom Milling Policy 2025-26 is expected to be finalized within this month, while the Labour and Cartage Policy-2024 and Foodgrain Transportation Policy-2024 have both been extended till September 30, 2025, to facilitate uninterrupted procurement and distribution processes.   On quality control, it was highlighted that NABL-accredited laboratories are conducting chemical testing of foodgrains as per FCI standards. The Minister also stressed the importance of timely procurement of tarpaulins, wooden crates, bardana, and mesh nets, with a special focus on quality.   Regarding the e-KYC of NFSA beneficiaries, 1.25 crore out of 1.57 crore have already completed the process. Citizens are being actively encouraged to complete their e-KYC to continue availing ration benefits under the National Food Security Act.

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