Chandigarh, March 28: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has demanded the central government to ensure adequate and continuous supply of petrol, diesel and DAP fertilizer. He said that the state is fully prepared to harvest 140 lakh metric tonnes of wheat. He also warned that if there is any interruption in the supply of oil, it will have a direct impact on the food security of the country.

No need to panic, government is fully prepared

The Chief Minister appealed to the people that there is no shortage of anything and there is no need to panic. He said that timely action of the Center is necessary to ensure smooth harvesting and transportation of grains. Punjab is ready to provide 181 lakh metric tonnes of wheat and 139 lakh metric tonnes of paddy to the country.

Oil supply is very important for harvesting

In the press conference, Mann said that in the virtual meeting with the Prime Minister, he told that 140 lakh metric tons of wheat production is expected this year. He said that a large number of tractors, trolleys, harvesters and trucks are used during harvesting, hence continuous supply of petrol and diesel is very important.

Adequate stock in the state, strictness on hoarding

The Chief Minister assured that there is 12 to 14 days of petrol-diesel and about 6 days of LPG stock in the state. He said that the country also has sufficient reserves and the supply is continuing. He warned that strict action would be taken against those involved in hoarding and black marketing.

LPG delivery and testing data

Mann said that till Thursday, 71,000 requests were received for LPG refill, of which 69,000 have been delivered. Investigations were conducted at 1,497 places in the state, in which 301 cylinders were seized. He clarified that there is no possibility of any kind of lockdown and all work is going on normally.

Punjab plays an important role in national food security

The Chief Minister said that Punjab makes an important contribution to the food security of the country. Preparations are on to deliver 41 lakh metric tonnes of wheat from the state’s warehouses and 140 lakh metric tonnes of wheat is expected to be produced this year. Apart from this, 139 lakh metric tonnes of paddy will also be made available.

Welcome and suggestions for the Centre’s decisions

Mann welcomed the decision to reduce tax on petrol and diesel and called it a positive step. He also demanded to ensure regular supply of DAP fertilizer as sowing of paddy will start from June 1. He also suggested reducing the waiting period for LPG refill in rural areas.

Raised important issues with the Prime Minister

The Chief Minister said that he raised all the important issues in the meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said that diplomatic efforts are necessary to save the country from any shortcomings and self-reliance is the real strength.