Punjab Enhances Mandi Labour Rates to Rs. 2.64 per Sack, Ensuring Rs. 10 Crore Benefit to Workers
Punjab Government Increases Mandi Labour Rates to Rs. 2.64 per Sack, Benefiting Workers with Rs. 10 Crore in Annual Gains
Chandigarh, April 16, 2025: In a significant move to uplift the welfare of agricultural workers, the Punjab Government has announced an increase in the mandi labour rates from Rs. 2.21 to Rs. 2.64 per sack. This 43 paise per sack hike is expected to benefit workers with an estimated Rs. 10 crore in additional earnings over the next year.
Enhancing Worker Welfare
Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Minister, Lal Chand Kataruchak, emphasized that this wage revision underscores the government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of those integral to the state’s procurement operations. “Labourers engaged in loading work in mandis play a crucial role in the procurement process. Their welfare is paramount,” said Minister Kataruchak.
Strategic Procurement Measures
To facilitate efficient procurement, the state has established 2,676 purchase centres, comprising 1,864 regular and 812 temporary ones. As of the latest reports, 4.19 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat have arrived in the mandis, with 3.22 LMT procured, accounting for 76% of the expected yield. Payments totaling Rs. 151 crore have been credited to farmers’ accounts under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme.
Addressing Storage Challenges
Minister Kataruchak also addressed concerns regarding storage capacity. In a recent video conference with Deputy Commissioners across districts, he directed officials to ensure adequate storage facilities are available, assuring that no difficulties are anticipated in this regard.
Commitment to Worker Welfare
This wage increase follows a previous enhancement in margin money for depot holders, which was doubled after eight years, benefiting over 14,000 depot holders across the state. These measures reflect the Punjab Government’s ongoing efforts to support and uplift the agricultural community.