LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attributed production of 27.5 million metric tonnes record bumper wheat crop in country to government’s efforts at timely decisions, provision of quality seed, interrupted supply of fertilizer and Kissan package. Expressing his satisfaction over country’s produce which surpassed production during previous ten years, he minister thanked Allah Almighty for blessing. Chairing review meeting countrywide wheat procurement drive at official level, PM Office Media Wing said in press release meeting was informed about production of wheat in current year, its available stock, carry forward stocks and procurement targets of federal and provincial departments.

Minister for National Food Security Tariq Bashir Cheema, PM’s Adviser Ahad Khan Cheema, Special Assistant Tariq Bajwa, Caretaker Punjab Minister for Industries SM Tanveer and other senior authorities attended. PM congratulated Minister for food security and other relevant authorities and appreciated their steps. He said that despite heavy rainfalls and floods in last year, achieving bumper wheat crop was result of incumbent government’s timely decisions and best governance. Felicitating nation on achieving milestone, he said that government was formulating strategy for achieving enhanced production next year. Due to mismanagement of previous government, Pakistan became wheat importing country, he said, adding farmers were made to wait in long lines for whole day to get fertilizers.

He said that provincial and federal departments should directly purchase wheat from farmers to provide them benefits. They should also increase procurement targets of wheat, so as to ensure its uninterrupted supply throughout year, he added.

He directed for strict action against hoarders. He directed for provision of required resources through banks to get specified quantity of wheat. 

He said that current administration's prompt actions and excellent leadership were reason for bountiful wheat crop, which was produced despite last year's tremendous rains and floods.

He congratulated country for reaching goal and stated that administration was developing plan to increase output following year.

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 01 2023

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