Centre's Controversial FCI Appointment in Punjab
The Centre is set to break from tradition by appointing a UT cadre IAS officer as the general manager of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) in Punjab. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially since Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has voiced strong concerns against it. In a letter to the Union Minister, Mann warned that this move could sow confusion among farmers, arhtiyas, laborers, and other stakeholders involved in the state's agricultural economy.
Currently, B. Srinivasan, a Punjab cadre IAS officer, holds the position but is set to retire on December 31. The Centre aims to fill this crucial role with someone from the UT cadre, who is based in Delhi. Mann's apprehensions stem from Punjab's significant contribution to India's food security, with annual procurements amounting to approximately Rs 1 lakh crore.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of appointing an officer familiar with Punjab's agricultural landscape, emphasizing that local officers have invaluable experience in the complex processes of procurement, storage, and distribution. He noted that this knowledge is essential for managing operations effectively, especially given the sensitivity of food procurement in the state.
Mann recalled the 2020 farmer protests against controversial farm laws, highlighting the need for a stable and experienced leadership in FCI Punjab to avoid similar unrest. The CM's letter pointed out that the longstanding tradition of appointing a Punjab cadre officer has been maintained since FCI’s inception, underpinning the critical understanding needed for the role.
Calling for a review of the Centre's decision, Mann insisted that selecting an officer from another cadre would disrupt the harmony among stakeholders in Punjab. He urged the Union Minister to consider the fresh panel submitted for the appointment and choose a candidate with prior experience in Punjab. Such a choice would not only ensure smooth coordination between the state government and FCI but also help sustain the vital procurement operations that are central to India's food security.
Mann's appeal aims to ensure that the new officer can take charge before the current GM retires, thereby maintaining continuity and efficiency in food procurement operations in Punjab. The outcome of this appointment will have significant implications for the state's farmers and the overall food supply chain in India.
