The Punjab government has finalized an agreement with the private sector to purchase wheat from farmers at a fixed rate of Rs3,500 per 40 kilograms, marking a significant step to support the province’s agricultural community. The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif in Lahore, as reported by 24NewsHD on Wednesday.
During the session, the Agriculture Department presented a comprehensive briefing on wheat cultivation and the upcoming procurement strategy. Officials confirmed that a detailed and structured plan for next year’s wheat procurement drive has been finalized, ensuring transparency and timely payments to farmers.
The meeting was also informed that Punjab currently has sufficient wheat reserves, dismissing speculation about shortages. The province remains self-sufficient in wheat production, thanks to increased cultivation efforts and improved supply chain management.
Speaking at the meeting, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif reiterated her government’s commitment to empowering farmers and strengthening the agricultural backbone of Punjab. “Farmers are our brothers, and the government stands firmly with them,” she said. “This initiative is not just about procurement — it’s about giving our farmers financial stability and the recognition they deserve.”
Highlighting her government’s achievements, Maryam Nawaz stated that for the first time in Pakistan’s history, 1,000 free tractors have been distributed to wheat farmers to promote mechanized farming. She also emphasized that billions of rupees in agricultural subsidies have been provided through the Kisan Card initiative, ensuring that resources reach genuine farmers directly.
The Chief Minister further assured that all types of fertilizers are available at controlled prices across Punjab, allowing farmers to access essential inputs without facing artificial shortages or inflated costs. She stressed that her administration’s focus remains on improving productivity, reducing middlemen exploitation, and ensuring fair returns for farmers’ hard work.
The Rs3,500 per 40kg procurement price is seen as a fair and competitive rate designed to stabilize the local wheat market while safeguarding farmers from potential losses due to fluctuating private sector prices. Economic analysts suggest that this policy will not only help farmers recover from past financial challenges but also encourage them to expand cultivation in the upcoming season.
With Punjab being the agricultural heart of Pakistan, such initiatives are expected to significantly boost food security and ensure steady wheat supplies across the country. The collaboration between the provincial government and the private sector marks a crucial move toward sustainable agricultural reform and farmer welfare.