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Punjab News: The government has directed the officials to take necessary steps to solve the problems of potato growers and cold store owners in Punjab on priority basis. Horticulture Minister Mohinder Bhagat, while listening to the problems of farmers and cold store operators, asked the officials to assess the situation at the ground level and prepare a detailed report. The state government says that continuous efforts are being made to increase the income of farmers and provide effective solutions to their problems.

Potato farmers and cold store owners expressed problems

During the meeting, potato growers and cold store owners presented their various problems before the minister. It stated the need to resolve issues to cold storage facilities as well as issues to Punjab Pollution Control Board on priority.

Minister Mohinder Bhagat told the officials to contact the farmers and concerned people directly, understand their problems in detail and prepare a complete report on that basis.

Emphasis on strengthening cold storage and packing units

The minister said that work is also being done to improve the basic facilities to agriculture in the state. Through Agriculture Infrastructure Fund and other schemes Cold Storage, Warehouse and Packing Units Emphasis is being laid on strengthening such facilities.

Improving these facilities can help farmers keep their produce safe and reach the market at the right time.

Crop diversification is also being promoted

The Punjab government is also encouraging farmers to move towards high value horticulture crops along with traditional crops. The government is talking about promoting modern technology, better irrigation system, protected farming, post-harvest management, cold-chain infrastructure and value addition.

Punjab plays a big role in potato production

The Punjab government has earlier also been emphasizing on developing the state as a major center of potato seed production. The strategy of the Horticulture Department has focused on increasing the income of potato growers through better technology and market access.

Mohinder Bhagat directed the officials to prepare a detailed report on the problems of farmers and cold store owners and take necessary action within the stipulated time. The aim of the government is to provide better facilities to the farmers from production to storage and market.