3,100 farmers receive fuel subsidy in Balochistan

CM Bugti says over 13,128 to get support this week

QUETTA:

The Balochistan government's agricultural relief package has been launched with the transfer of subsidy payments to the bank accounts of 3,102 farmers in the initial phase of implementation, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti said on Wednesday.

Outlining the progress of the scheme, the chief minister stated that payments for an additional 13,128 farmers would be completed within the next two to three days, as the government accelerates phased disbursement under the programme.

Rising regional tensions, alongside persistently high fuel prices, have placed severe strain on Balochistan's agriculture sector, significantly increasing the cost of wheat harvesting operations, particularly the use of thresher machines during the current season, officials said.

In response to mounting pressure on small farmers and landholders, the provincial government has formally introduced a thresher fuel subsidy scheme aimed at easing operational costs during the wheat harvest.

According to Chief Minister Bugti, more than 85,000 farmers have registered for the subsidy scheme, while verification of over 74,000 applicants has already been completed, adding that the process remains ongoing to ensure the inclusion of all eligible beneficiaries.

"Priority is being given to small-scale farmers and those with ready wheat crops, with the aim of providing timely financial support during a critical harvesting period," he said, stressing that the fuel subsidy would substantially reduce thresher operating expenses.

He further stated, "The provincial government remains committed to standing by the farming community during challenging economic conditions and will continue efforts to safeguard agricultural productivity through targeted interventions."

The chief minister further stated that wheat is a vital component of Balochistan's economy and food security framework and would not be allowed to suffer due to financial constraints or external pressures.

Under the scheme, senior government officials said farmers owning up to 12.5 acres of land are also being provided Rs 15,000 through the Kisan Card mechanism to assist with fuel and harvesting-related costs.

They maintained that the initiative is expected to enable farmers to complete the wheat harvesting process without undue financial stress, assuring that all eligible farmers will receive subsidies in a timely manner.