Sukhbir Singh Badal Seeks PM Modis Intervention in Cotton Procurement Issue in Punjab

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure that cotton is procured at the minimum support price (MSP) in Punjab. Badal expressed shock over the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) imposing a quality cut of Rs 150 on long-staple cotton, reducing the assured price from Rs 6,920 per quintal to Rs 6,770 per quintal.

Representative image

CCI's Procurement Practices Causing Distress to Farmers

Badal highlighted the plight of farmers in the Abohar belt, where the CCI's procurement process has been erratic. The procurement was halted on November 30 and resumed briefly on December 7, only to be stopped again on December 9. This repeated disruption has forced farmers to sell their crops to private players at significantly lower prices, ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 5,200 per quintal.

Farmers Facing Distress Sale Due to Lack of Support

Badal emphasized that farmers are compelled to resort to distress sales due to the lack of adequate transportation and storage facilities. Out of the approximately 3.50 lakh quintals of cotton that arrived in the market, the CCI has procured only one lakh quintals, leaving a substantial quantity unsold.

Appeal for Uninterrupted Procurement and MSP

In light of these challenges, Badal urged Prime Minister Modi to issue necessary instructions to ensure uninterrupted and smooth procurement of cotton. He also appealed for the government to provide farmers with the MSP of Rs 6,920 per quintal to ensure fair compensation for their produce.

Sukhbir Singh Badal's appeal highlights the urgent need for government intervention to address the concerns of cotton farmers in Punjab. By ensuring timely procurement at the MSP, the government can provide much-needed relief to farmers and support the agricultural sector in the state.