Chandigarh. Amidst global circumstances and their impact on supply chains, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann issued a significant statement. He declared that Punjab is once again ready to emerge as a crisis solver, and the wheat and rice currently stored in the state’s warehouses are ready to be transported to every corner of the country. To facilitate this, he urged the Central Government to operate special trains if necessary. The CM revealed that during a virtual meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi—which was also attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah—Punjab clearly articulated that the state possesses adequate grain reserves and requested that these stocks be lifted immediately to ensure there are no impediments to the procurement of the new harvest.
He stated that Punjab currently holds a stock of approximately 171 lakh metric tonnes of wheat and 139 lakh metric tonnes of rice, which can be distributed nationwide under the Public Distribution System (PDS) and the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana. The CM emphasized that the rapid lifting of these stocks via special trains is crucial, as the new harvest is expected to start arriving in the mandis (grain markets) in the coming days.
Rumors of Petrol and Diesel Shortage Dismissed
Dismissing the rumors circulating regarding petrol and diesel supplies, CM Mann asserted that there is absolutely no shortage of either fuel in the state. Currently, Punjab holds a stock sufficient for 12 days of petrol, 14 days of diesel, and 6 days of LPG, which is more than adequate to meet normal requirements. He appealed to the public not to panic and stockpile fuel at home, warning that doing so could be dangerous.
He also mentioned that a request has been submitted to the Central Government to reduce the waiting period for LPG cylinders in rural areas. Additionally, the state requested that no restrictions be imposed on industrial operations and that supply chains be kept running smoothly.
The CM noted that since Punjab is a border state, it should be accorded priority in the allocation of resources. He affirmed that law and order remain completely under control and that there is no situation warranting panic.
Finally, he appealed to the media to act responsibly and to refrain from circulating unverified reports. Furthermore, a warning was issued stating that strict action would be taken against those engaging in black marketing and hoarding.
Demands (Punjab’s Key Demands)
- Immediate lifting of food grains via special trains.
- Petroleum supplies must not be disrupted; the Centre should take initiatives at the international level.
- The waiting period for LPG cylinders in villages should be reduced.
- Priority should be accorded to Punjab by virtue of its status as a border state.
- No restrictions of any kind should be imposed on industries.
Supply and Stock
- Petrol: 12 days’ stock
- Diesel: 14 days’ stock
- LPG: 6 days’ stock
- Wheat: 171 lakh metric tonnes
- Rice: 139 lakh metric tonnes
- Covered Storage Capacity: 155 lakh metric tonnes
- As of March 27: 1,497 inspections conducted; 301 LPG cylinders seized.
