KP govt initiates wheat procurement from Punjab farmers
PESHAWAR, May 18: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has commenced the purchase of wheat from farmers in Punjab, offering a competitive rate of 3900 rupees per maund.
Yasir Hassan, Director of the Food Department, confirmed the initiation of wheat procurement from Punjab farmers, accompanied by warm welcomes through banners adorning the procurement sites.
Highlighting the scale of the endeavor, Hassan stated that 286 thousand metric tons of wheat are slated for procurement from Punjab farmers by June 30. Additionally, a target of acquiring 3 lakh metric tons of wheat has been set, with 14 thousand metric tons already purchased from local farmers.
Minister of Food for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zahir Shah Toro, emphasized the government's commitment to transparency and efficiency in the procurement process. Toro elucidated that technological advancements, including an online app for farmers and digital meters to assess wheat quality, have been employed. Furthermore, the installation of CCTV cameras at procurement centers aims to uphold transparency and accountability.
Asserting a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, Toro underscored the suspension of officers and booking of individuals for alleged violations and embezzlement.
With 20 thousand metric tons of wheat already procured across various centers, Toro reaffirmed the government's dedication to supporting local farmers and ensuring the prosperity of the agricultural sector. He stressed that the decision to procure wheat from Punjab farmers was made in the best interest of agricultural prosperity, emphasizing the correlation between a thriving farming community and national prosperity.
Toro addressed concerns about imported wheat, asserting the government's preference for supporting local farmers over imported alternatives, underscoring the significance of prioritizing domestic agricultural production for national welfare.
