K-P Government Revolutionizes Wheat Procurement Process

The provincial government of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) has made history by directly procuring high-quality wheat from farmers for the first time, ensuring both quality and quantity. This groundbreaking approach, spearheaded by Food Minister Zahir Shah Toru, has successfully disrupted corrupt practices and maintained transparency throughout the procurement process.

Using an online application, the Food Department registered local farmers and those from other provinces, allowing for a fair first-come-first-served basis for wheat procurement. The system surpassed expectations by recording an impressive 1.8 million metric tons of wheat against the initial target of 300,000 metric tons, demonstrating remarkable efficiency and transparency.

To ensure adherence to quality standards, a dedicated committee comprising various stakeholders closely monitored 22 procurement centers using CCTV cameras. This committee, which included representatives from different departments and oversight bodies, took swift action by suspending nine officers for violations, further emphasizing the commitment to upholding regulations.

Minister Toru commended the successful procurement campaign for enhancing food security and economic activities in K-P. He has directed officials to build upon this year's success and develop a comprehensive procurement strategy for future wheat purchases, aiming to sustain the positive impact on the region.

Adviser Dr. Saif praised the transparent completion of the wheat procurement process, highlighting its beneficial effects on wheat and flour prices, particularly benefiting the underprivileged. He criticized the federal and Punjab governments for spreading misinformation and assured impartial action against any corruption allegations, underscoring the importance of integrity in public service.

The achievement of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government in revolutionizing wheat procurement not only ensures food security and economic growth but also sets a precedent for transparent and efficient governance. By prioritizing integrity and accountability, the province has taken a significant step towards fostering trust among its citizens and promoting sustainable development.