The wheat policy introduced by the Punjab government has stirred contrasting emotions among different segments of society. While profiteers and hoarders are feeling uneasy, the policy has brought joy to the poor and small farmers.
With wheat prices experiencing a steady decline, dropping by Rs 800 per maund, even below the official rate, wheat is now being sold at Rs 32 to Rs 35 per maund, while old wheat continues to fetch Rs 5,000 per maund.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's successful initiative to lower flour prices and make bread more affordable has garnered praise from the less privileged. However, this move has left hoarders and profiteers concerned due to the government's crackdown on purchasing wheat directly from small farmers.
Despite the commencement of the wheat harvesting season nationwide, uncertainty surrounding the government's procurement policy has led to a Rs 700 to Rs 1,000 drop in new wheat prices in the open market.
Rather than increasing the official wheat rate, the government has maintained last year's rate at Rs 3,900 per maund, with wheat being purchased from farmers at Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,300 in local markets.
In response to the perceived shortcomings of the government's wheat procurement policy, Sardar Zafarah Hussain Khan, the Central President of Kisan Board Pakistan, has announced a nationwide protest on April 25.
The protest aims to highlight the plight of farmers facing financial exploitation and to ensure that farmers' interests are prioritized in agricultural policies.
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