Action against Kisan Card fraud launched

KHANEWAL:

The Punjab government has launched a province-wide crackdown against fertilizer dealers accused of misusing the Kisan Card scheme by providing cash payments instead of fertilizers to farmers. The decision includes the registration of criminal cases and cancellation of dealership licences for those found guilty.

The Kisan Card initiative was introduced to ensure the supply of fertilisers to farmers at subsidized and interest-free rates, enabling better crop yields through optimal fertiliser use. However, during the last wheat cultivation season, a large number of fertilizer dealers allegedly deducted amounts from Kisan Cards and paid cash to farmers instead of providing fertilisers.

Officials said this malpractice not only led to a decline in fertiliser consumption but also reportedly reduced average wheat yield in several areas.

Many dealers were found showing inflated fertilizer sales data in their accounts despite not having procured sufficient quantities from fertilizer companies.

The Punjab government, through a formal circular, has directed assistant commissioners across the province to conduct inspections and initiate action against violators.

Under the Kisan Card scheme, each farmer was entitled to receive up to Rs30,000 per acre, with a maximum limit of Rs300,000 per farmer, repayable without interest.