Employees of the Punjab Mandi Board have voiced strong opposition to the state government’s decision to transfer the management of a major fruit and vegetable market to the Punjab Urban Development Authority (PUDA). The staff union has urged the government to reconsider the move, claiming it will disrupt the existing agricultural marketing system and negatively affect farmers and traders.
According to union representatives, the proposed transfer undermines the role of the Mandi Board, which has long been responsible for managing agricultural markets, ensuring transparency, and maintaining facilities for farmers. They argue that the board’s expertise and direct engagement with the farming community make it better equipped to handle the operations of such markets.
“The Mandi Board was created to serve farmers, not to be sidelined by urban authorities,” said a spokesperson of the employees’ union. “Handing over these markets to PUDA will turn them into commercial spaces rather than centres supporting agricultural trade.”
Union members have also raised concerns about the possible impact on market infrastructure, employment of existing staff, and service quality. They fear that PUDA’s involvement could lead to higher user fees and reduced farmer-friendly policies, as the authority primarily focuses on real estate and urban development rather than agricultural marketing.
Sources indicate that the transfer proposal is part of the state’s broader plan to reorganize market management under urban governance frameworks. However, agricultural experts warn that such a shift could disrupt the mandi ecosystem, which plays a crucial role in price discovery and farmer earnings.
The union has submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister, urging an immediate review of the decision. They have also hinted at possible statewide protests if their demands are not addressed.
As discussions continue, stakeholders hope the government will engage with farmers, traders, and Mandi Board employees before finalizing the move, ensuring that the interests of Punjab’s agricultural community remain protected.
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