Punjab procured 145.57 lakh tonnes of paddy till yesterday during the current season in the 1770 purchase centres in the state. Claiming this here on Thursday, Punjab Mandi Board chairman Ajmer Singh Lakhowal said that out of total purchase, government agencies procured 125.13 lakh tonnes of paddy whereas private traders/millers purchased 20.44 lakh tonnes.

He said that government target was 135 lakh tonnes but even then it made storage arrangement for 150 lakh tonnes.

Lakhowal said that Sangrur district was on top with 15.76 lakh tonnes followed by Ludhiana with 15.62 lakh tonnes and Patiala with 12.93 lakh tonnes.

Unlifted procure paddy was 5.81 lakh tonnes and it would be lifted within next two-three days, he added.