Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government Supports Farmers Amid Wheat Crisis

Farmers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are facing a challenging situation as wheat prices plummet, causing concerns for their financial well-being. Jalal Khan, a farmer from Nowshera, expressed his worries over the low prices of wheat this season, highlighting the significant loss farmers are experiencing.

The root of the issue can be traced back to the global impact of the Russian invasion of wheat-rich Ukraine, disrupting international supply chains and leading to a shortage of wheat in the market. This crisis has not only affected local farmers but has also put pressure on governments to intervene and support the agricultural community.

Experts point out that the bumper crop in Punjab, coupled with the disruptions in international trade, has exacerbated the wheat prices crisis in Pakistan. The situation has prompted the government to take action, with initiatives such as increasing procurement limits and setting fair control prices to stabilize the market.

In response to the crisis, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has initiated the purchase of 300,000 metric tons of wheat from local farmers at a fixed price of Rs 3,900 per 40 kilograms. This move aims to support farmers and ensure a smooth procurement process despite challenges posed by recent weather patterns.

Efforts are being made to streamline the wheat procurement process and store surplus wheat in government godowns to prevent financial losses for farmers. It is crucial for farmers to cooperate with authorities and report any issues during the procurement process to ensure a fair and transparent system.

The government's intervention, along with the cooperation of farmers, is essential to mitigate the impact of the wheat prices crisis and provide much-needed support to the agricultural sector in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.