KARACHI:
Despite a promising wheat harvest this year, delays in procurement by the Punjab government, coupled with recent rains, cast a shadow over farmers’ hopes. Currently, government warehouses are burdened with 26 lakh metric tonnes of wheat.
Concerns have been raised about past irregularities and the potential for smuggling and profiteering, urging swift action from the authorities. Questions loom over the caretaker government’s decision to procure wheat through the private sector, raising doubts about the handling of record production figures. Farmers fear losses if government procurement targets are not met promptly, potentially leading to inflated market prices and benefiting smugglers and hoarders.
Urgent government intervention is imperative to reassure farmers of timely wheat purchases at official prices, safeguarding their livelihoods and the stability of the wheat market.
Amin Wastoo
Hoshab
Published in The Express Tribune, May 3rd, 2024.
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