Punjab Government Announces Wheat Procurement Plan
The Punjab government has finalized a comprehensive plan for wheat procurement for the upcoming year, setting the purchase price at PKR 3,500 per maan (approximately 40 kilograms). The initiative is designed to ensure fair compensation for farmers while stabilizing the province’s agricultural economy.
A formal agreement has also been signed between the provincial government and private sector stakeholders to streamline the procurement process and guarantee timely payments to growers.
Meeting Highlights: Agricultural Production and Stock Levels
The plan was discussed in a meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Officials from the Department of Agriculture presented a detailed briefing on wheat production, current stock levels, and anticipated market trends.
According to the briefing, Punjab currently has sufficient wheat reserves, with no shortage in sight. This measure, authorities said, aims to reassure both farmers and consumers that supply stability will be maintained throughout the year.
Support Measures for Farmers
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, calling them “our brothers” and assuring that the administration would never abandon them.
Highlighting previous interventions, she noted that for the first time in Pakistan’s history, the government provided 1,000 free tractors to wheat farmers. Additionally, billions of rupees in agricultural inputs—including seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides—have been distributed through the “Kisan Card” system.
“These initiatives aim to reduce production costs and increase farm productivity,” Maryam Nawaz stated. She added that all types of fertilizers are readily available in Punjab at controlled rates, ensuring farmers can access essential inputs at affordable prices.
Strengthening Punjab’s Agricultural Economy
Punjab contributes a major share of Pakistan’s wheat output, producing approximately 6.5 to 7 million tonnes annually. By guaranteeing procurement prices and providing subsidized inputs, the government seeks to bolster the economic independence of farmers and enhance the overall agricultural sector.
Analysts say that predictable pricing and resource support can encourage farmers to invest in modern farming techniques, increasing yields and boosting food security across the country.
The government’s comprehensive plan is also expected to stabilize wheat prices in local markets, benefiting both producers and consumers.
Looking Ahead
Punjab’s wheat procurement strategy reflects a growing focus on agricultural development in Pakistan. By combining price guarantees with resource support, the provincial government aims to protect farmers from market volatility while ensuring sufficient wheat stocks for domestic consumption.
Officials indicated that similar initiatives could be expanded to other key crops in the coming years, further supporting rural livelihoods and contributing to national food security.
