Thursday, July 4, 2024 07:30 PM
KP Government Procures Wheat from Punjab, Ensures Supply Stability
- KP government seizes opportunity with proactive wheat procurement from Punjab
- Strategic decision saves Rs9 billion, secures 300,000 metric tons of wheat
- Efforts to preempt wheat crisis, maintain stable prices benefit farmers and consumers
Image Credits: pakistantodayThe Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government takes proactive steps to procure wheat from Punjab, ensuring supply stability, cost savings, and market price control for the benefit of farmers and consumers.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has seized the opportunity presented by a bumper wheat crop in Punjab by commencing the approval process for the purchase of wheat from its neighboring province. With the aim of procuring 300,000 metric tons of wheat, the KP government has allocated Rs29 billion for this purpose, signaling a proactive approach to capitalize on the surplus wheat production in Punjab.
Starting from May 1, the provincial government will begin the procurement process, setting the price of wheat at Rs3,900 per 40 kilograms. This strategic decision not only leverages the abundant wheat harvest in Punjab but also demonstrates a cost-effective measure, potentially saving the provincial government an estimated Rs9 billion through local procurement.
In addition to the initial purchase, the KP government has the flexibility to acquire an additional 300,000 metric tons of wheat if required, further solidifying its efforts to secure an adequate wheat supply for the region. The allocated funds have been released to the Food Department, ensuring a smooth and timely commencement of wheat procurement activities.
According to sources within the Food Department, the procured wheat stock will be stored and strategically supplied to the market in November, aiming to preempt any potential wheat crisis and maintain stability in wheat prices. The fixed prices of wheat, both locally and from Pasco, have been established at Rs3,900 and Rs5,300 per 40 kilograms, respectively, reflecting a well-structured approach to wheat procurement and distribution.
The proactive steps taken by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to purchase wheat from Punjab not only leverage the surplus wheat production in the neighboring province but also demonstrate a strategic and cost-effective approach to ensure a stable wheat supply in the region. By releasing funds and setting fixed prices, the provincial government is poised to address potential wheat shortages and contribute to price stability in the market, ultimately benefiting both farmers and consumers.
