Ludhiana, April 7 -- Punjab's food, civil supplies and consumer affairs minister Lal Chand Kataruchak on Sunday said that the state government is fully prepared to welcome farmers for the wheat procurement season, with arrangements in place across 1,864 grain markets in the state.

Kataruchak further said that no leave will be granted to staff involved in procurement activities unless absolutely necessary. "Officials must remain present at grain markets to assist farmers. Any carelessness will not be tolerated," he said.

Speaking after a review meeting with officials from Ludhiana, Moga, Faridkot, Ferozepur, and Barnala districts, the minister said, "All preparations have been completed to ensure hassle-free procurement of wheat. Farmers...