KARACHI:
It appears that our Prime Minister and other government functionaries are busy with photo shoots at the flour distribution centres across the country. Little do they realise that it is a matter of shame and not something to be proud of. Unfortunately, such gimmickry is the hallmark of our politics.
The government is struggling to ensure an adequate supply of flour for the poor, and in turn, has forced the poor to abandon all dignity just to get a bag of flour. However, it must at least focus on the short-term future. The new wheat crop is almost ready for harvest across the country. Despite erratic weather, it appears that we will have a great crop harvest if managed well. The government should support farmers by providing them with proper machinery and storage facilities to help them with harvesting and storage of crops.
If the government wants to avoid wheat shortages and spending precious foreign exchange on buying wheat, it must take timely and effective measures. Providing support to farmers and ensuring the timely and efficient buying of the new wheat crop is central to keeping wheat stocks at optimal levels.
Raja Shafaatullah
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, April 14th, 2023.
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