Wheat policy under the scanner

Sindh unveils farmer-first wheat policy with fixed price, direct payments

KARACHI:

With past controversies casting a long shadow, the Sindh government on Friday announced a new wheat procurement policy, pledging transparency and tighter controls - but leaving observers watching closely to see how the measures play out on the ground.

At a joint press conference, members of the provincial cabinet's subcommittee on wheat policy - including Food Minister Makhdoom Mehboob-uz-Zaman, Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro, Excise Minister Mukesh Kumar Chawla, and Adviser Gyan Chand Esrani - said the province will procure one million metric tons of wheat this season at a support price of Rs3,500 per 40 kg.

The procurement process is set to begin on April 1 through 109 centres across Sindh. Officials said that, for the first time, purchases will be limited to registered Hari Card holders, a move aimed at improving oversight and ensuring that benefits reach farmers directly. The policy is expected to cover around 330,000 growers.

The government has also decided not to provide gunny bags this year. Farmers will instead arrange their own and receive Rs60 per bag, with payments to be transferred directly into their bank accounts through Sindh Bank.

Authorities pointed to subsidy measures during Ramazan, saying billions were spent to maintain wheat and flour supply at controlled rates. They also cited disciplinary action against officials over alleged irregularities, including suspensions and dismissals.

Responding to reports of wheat shortages or theft, Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro rejected the claims, stating that official records accounted for existing stocks and that reserves remain available for use if needed.

Officials maintained that the revised policy is designed to regulate procurement and support smaller growers, who have previously received input subsidies, while a planned digital platform is expected to track the process more closely.

Whether the new framework delivers on its stated goals, however, is likely to become clear only as procurement begins next month.