Chandigarh, Dec 14 : Since its formation Nov 1, 1966, Haryana has broken all records in paddy production this season (October 2008-December 2009), according to the state's food and supplies department officials.

Haryana registered a production of over 45.55 lakh tonnes of paddy, more than the previous highest of 45.11 lakh tonnes notched in 2005, the officials said here Monday.

The record production has been achieved despite not so favourable weather conditions this year with the state experiencing less-to-scanty rainfall.

Neighbouring Punjab has also recorded a bumper yield this season with procurement of over 143 lakh tonnes.

"All the paddy arriving in the 'mandis' (grain markets) of the state has been purchased either by government agencies or rice millers and dealers," said Haryana Food and Supplies Minister Mahender Pratap Singh.

Government agencies have purchased over 26.30 lakh tonnes and millers and dealers over 19.24 lakh tonnes this year.

Kurukshetra, Karnal and Kaithal districts lead in paddy arrival and procurement.(IANS)