Address Wheat Supply Challenges, Punjab Flour Millers Urge Government
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Roller Flour Millers Association of Punjab has requested the Central Government to tackle the ongoing wheat supply crisis affecting the local industry. They highlight the importance of wheat milling for farmer prosperity and urge for increased market availability of wheat.
Key Takeaways
- Wheat supply crisis in Punjab affects flour milling.
- Industry plays a crucial role in farmers' prosperity.
- Call for more wheat from FCI to stabilize supply.
- Expectation of improved harvest this year.
- Proposal for specialized wheat varieties for flour production.
Chandigarh, Feb 20 (NationPress) The Roller Flour Millers Association of Punjab urged the Central Government on Thursday to address the wheat supply challenges currently impacting the industry in the region.
This association, representing the wheat processing sector, held an awareness workshop aimed at improving the profitability and legal compliance of the industry.
The event was led by Principal Secretary of Food & Civil Supplies, Vikas Garg.
According to Association President Dharminder Singh Gill and Vice President Anil Popli, the roller flour milling sector is categorized as an MSME, playing a crucial role in the economic stability of Punjab's agrarian community. Wheat is a key crop in the state, and the flour milling industry enhances its value by transforming it into wheat flour for consumers.
They emphasized the importance of fortifying the industry to ensure it remains a vital asset for farmers. Currently, the supply of wheat is regulated by the Food Corporation of India (FCI), and they have requested that the FCI make more wheat available in the market.
“Punjab contributes 95 percent of its wheat production to the Central pool via the FCI, making the industry highly dependent on it,” they stated.
Reports indicate that the wheat sowing area has increased by approximately three to four percent this year.
“We anticipate a better harvest and urge the government to release at least 10 LMT into the market through the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) to ensure adequate wheat supply in Punjab until April 13, when the new crop is harvested,” they expressed.
The association adopted a resolution presenting several requests to the government, including the establishment of a committee comprising industry representatives and Punjab Agricultural University to formulate and execute schemes that promote better industry-farmer collaboration. They also proposed the development and promotion of specialized wheat varieties tailored for specific flour applications.
