Agri task force reviews fertiliser stock

Officers were told to continue checking markets and fertiliser dealers in their areas

LAHORE:

Ensuring the supply of fertiliser to farmers at fixed rates is the first priority of the department. All officers should implement a zero-tolerance policy and perform their duties without considering any pressure.

These views were expressed by Additional Secretary Agriculture (Task Force) Punjab Muhammad Shabir Ahmed Khan while presiding over a meeting held in Okara district regarding the supply of fertilizers at fixed rates.

In this regard, officers were told to continue checking markets and fertilizer dealers in their areas. Khan added that officers should follow a zero-tolerance policy against the black market trade of fertilisers and continue their work without fear and according to the provisions of the law.

The Additional Secretary expressed concern over the status of registering FIRs in Kasur and Vehari and directed officers to improve their performance. He added that all officers should keep a close eye on the traceability of fertiliser in their areas and FIRs should be immediately registered against any illegal activity.

He also ordered staff to display department phone numbers at all fertilizers and pesticide dealers and the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and Agriculture Department offices, so that the farmers can lodge their complaints. Their complaints will be resolved within 24 hours.

Later, representatives of farmers' organizations met the Additional Secretary and shared their problems, which he directed staff to resolve immediately.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 18^th, 2023.