LAHORE: As wheat harvesting commences across Punjab, small farmers find themselves grappling with the challenges of fluctuating wheat prices and market exploitation by hoarders and middlemen. Despite assurances from Punjab Food Minister Bilal Yasin regarding a grower-friendly policy, concerns persist regarding fair wheat prices and timely procurement.
While the wheat price remains unchanged from the previous year, the primary concern for the government lies in curbing the influence of market mafia, which poses a significant threat to the profits of small-scale farmers. Minister Yasin has pledged to procure two million metric tons of wheat, with an additional 1.4 million metric tons to be procured by the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PAASCO). However, the potential for a bumper crop raises questions about the mechanisms in place to protect farmers from exploitation.
Efforts are underway to streamline the procurement process, with targets being set at division and district levels. Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) is establishing control rooms and call centers to monitor procurement activities and provide IT-related support. Additionally, delivery charges will be provided to suppliers and growers above the minimum support price.
Despite these initiatives, challenges persist for small farmers, including the availability of inputs at standard rates. Many farmers report purchasing fertilizers and seeds at inflated prices due to collusion between hoarders and government departments. Additionally, the cost of irrigation adds to the financial burden, particularly for farmers with limited access to canal water.
Representatives of farmer organizations, including Kisan Board Pakistan and Pakistan Kisan Ittehad, have called for an increase in procurement limits and a revision of support prices to ensure fair compensation for farmers. Concerns have also been raised about the potential impact of delayed procurement and the influence of private buyers on market prices.
As the procurement process gets underway, farmers are urged to take precautions to minimize crop losses and seek assistance from the food department’s toll-free helpline for any issues encountered during the campaign. Despite the challenges ahead, efforts are being made to safeguard the interests of small farmers and ensure a successful wheat harvesting season in Punjab.
