Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has requested Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi to release the state’s pending dues of over ₹9,000 crore, comprising the Rural Development Fund (RDF) and Market Fees. During their meeting, Mann highlighted the crucial role of the RDF in developing rural infrastructure, including roads, storage facilities, and modernization of mandis. Despite amending the Punjab Rural Development Act, 1987, in line with central guidelines, the RDF has remained unreleased since 2021-22. Mann stated that ₹7,737.27 crore under RDF and ₹1,836.62 crore under Market Fees are still owed to the state. He also addressed the issue of rice storage and movement, emphasizing the need for faster lifting of rice to prevent storage shortages and ensure smooth procurement. He also requested the Union Minister to consider the issue of Aarthia Commission and the advancing of paddy procurement dates.
