Current Affairs - State - Discussion

The Punjab government introduced a One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme specifically targeting 'arhtiyas', commission agents operating in mandis (grain markets). The initiative, announced by the state’s Agriculture Minister, is aimed at reducing the financial burden on these agents by waiving or reducing interest and penalties on shops and plots allotted to them. The scheme will be implemented by the Punjab Mandi Board and is intended to improve the financial stability of 'arhtiyas', thereby supporting the agricultural marketing infrastructure. This effort reflects a focused state-level approach to strengthening economic conditions for key stakeholders in the agri-supply chain.