In Punjab, commission agents, known as arhtiyas, are demanding the restoration of a full 2.5% commission on grain procurement, which they claim has been undermined by the 2020 amendment that introduced the phrase 'up to 2.5%'. This change has led to a fixed payment of approximately ₹50.75 per quintal, significantly reducing their earnings amidst rising inflation and operational costs. The arhtiyas argue that the previous percentage-based system allowed their income to scale with procurement volumes, which is vital given the high levels of wheat and paddy procurement in the state. Legal challenges have emerged, as the ambiguous wording of the amendment complicates their ability to contest the payment structure in court. Protests have been organized, with arhtiyas threatening to escalate their actions if their demands are not addressed. Punjab's Food Minister Lal Chand Kattaruchak has acknowledged the issue and indicated that it has been raised with the central government, but the arhtiyas feel that their concerns are not being adequately addressed. As procurement activities ramp up, the ongoing dispute over the commission structure poses risks to the state's grain management system and could adversely affect farmers and traders alike.