Punjab Farmer Groups Halt Rail Protest for Now, Set 3-Day Deadline for Govt Action

Chandigarh, Apr 17, 2026: Farmer organisations in Punjab have temporarily called off their planned rail blockade, granting authorities a three-day window to resolve ongoing issues related to wheat procurement.

The decision came after discussions among multiple farmer bodies, who said they received assurances from officials that procurement operations would be accelerated. However, union leaders made it clear that the protest could quickly resume if the situation does not improve within the stipulated time.

The announcement followed a virtual meeting involving representatives from key farmer groups, including the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, Sanyukt Kisan Morcha, and Azad Kisan Morcha. Leaders described the 72-hour pause as a final opportunity for both the state and central governments to address their concerns.

The unrest among farmers began due to slow lifting of wheat crops from mandis, especially after unseasonal rainfall affected grain quality. Many farmers feared financial losses as their produce did not meet standard procurement norms.

In response, the Union government approved a relaxation in procurement specifications for the ongoing rabi season. The move allows agencies to purchase crops that may have suffered damage, ensuring farmers are still able to sell at the Minimum Support Price (MSP), currently set at ₹2,585 per quintal.

This decision came after the Punjab government formally requested intervention earlier this month, citing widespread crop damage caused by adverse weather conditions.

Despite the Centre’s decision, farmer leaders criticised the Punjab government, alleging delays in taking up the matter with central authorities. They claimed that earlier action could have reduced the difficulties faced by farmers at procurement centres.

While some procurement activity has reportedly picked up in certain mandis, farmer unions remain cautious. They warned that if the pace does not improve significantly within the next three days, the suspended rail blockade will be reinstated across the state without further notice.