Broken grain norms, low reimbursements spark protest in Karnal.

Parveen Arora – Tribune News Service

The state government began early procurement of paddy on Monday, but rice millers have refused to register under the Custom-Milled Rice (CMR) policy, raising doubts over smooth procurement.

Under CMR, procurement agencies purchase paddy and allot it to millers, who must return 67% rice with 1% Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK). However, not a single registration was recorded on the first day in Karnal.

“No rice miller has registered for CMR so far in Karnal. We have made all arrangements for procurement at 17 purchase centres and grain markets,” said Anil Kumar, District Food and Supplies Controller (DFSC).

Sourabh Gupta, president of the Karnal Rice Millers and Dealers Association, said the industry has issues with the new policy. “The major change is the reduction of permissible broken rice from 25% to 10%. This is unrealistic since breakage is natural. The government compensates only Rs 2.23–3.33 per quintal, while the actual cost is around Rs 25 per quintal,” he pointed out.

Gupta also flagged poor transportation facilities. “Many transporters win tenders without enough vehicles, even giving fake numbers. This delays paddy movement during peak season,” he alleged.

A state-level meeting of millers and dealers has been called in Pehowa tomorrow to decide the next course of action.

Amarjit Chhabra, president of the Haryana Pradesh Rice Millers and Dealers Association, said: “A few millers have registered, but we want clarity on broken rice and gunny bag costs. FCI offers Rs 6 for two 50-kg bags, while the market cost is Rs 30.”

He said unlike Punjab, Haryana provides no payment for unloading, stacking, custody and maintenance. “Punjab millers get Rs 4.96 for these operations, while here nothing is given,” he said.

Chhabra further highlighted godown shortages. “Millers should be allotted nearby godowns instead of distant ones. Current transport reimbursement is far below actual costs,” he said.

A final decision will be announced after Tuesday’s meeting in Pehowa.

Published Date: September 23, 2025