The provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) is set to acquire 3.5 million tons of wheat from Punjab’s private sector, as outlined in a document from the food department. This wheat procurement to KP aims to address the wheat shortage within KP, which has a production of 1.5 million tons but requires approximately five million tons of wheat, as stated in the document.
Under this procurement plan, the KP government will directly purchase three lac tons of wheat from local farmers at a rate of Rs. 3,900 per maund. The provincial Ministry of Finance has already secured the necessary funds for this wheat procurement, ensuring a smooth process.
The federal cabinet has taken notice of the wheat import activities during the caretaker setup, prompting the Ministry of Food Security to initiate an inquiry. This underscores the significance of wheat management and procurement at both provincial and federal levels.
In response to the wheat scandal issue, Nawaz Sharif, the supreme leader of PML-N, has called for an emergency meeting. This meeting will feature Punjab’s Minister of Food, the secretary of food, and other relevant officials who will present updates and insights on the matter. The session will encompass a comprehensive review of the findings from the federal government’s inquiry committee, shedding light on the current situation and addressing concerns related to wheat procurement to KP.
The prime minister will present the inquiry committee’s report to Nawaz Sharif, who will make the final decision regarding this critical issue. As KP takes proactive steps to secure its wheat supply, collaborative efforts between provinces and federal entities remain crucial for effective wheat management and food security across Pakistan.
