India, April 2 -- Wheat procurement in Punjab began on Wednesday on a troubled note as arhtiyas (commission agents), who play a central role in mandi operations, went on strike over a set of unresolved demands, raising concerns over disruptions in the procurement process.

The arhtiyas are demanding restoration of the old system of 2.5% dami (commission), reimbursement of Rs.55 crore deducted by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) as employees' provident fund (EPF), and withdrawal of the decision to cut commission for procurement of foodgrains meant for storage in silos.

Punjab is expecting the arrival of around 122 lakh tonnes of wheat in mandis this season. However, arrivals are likely to be delayed due to unseasonal rainfall in March,...