As the Punjab government denies responsibility for the ongoing wheat crisis, PML-N founder Nawaz Sharif has requested a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Jati Umra residence to address the issue.
Meanwhile, the provincial government is exploring additional ways to compensate wheat growers instead of revising its grain procurement target or setting a date for market entry for purchases.
“Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government imported wheat when the local crop was about to mature, creating the current crisis,” stated Punjab information minister Azma Bokhari while dispatching relief goods to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an inquiry into irregularities in wheat imports, with findings to be made public soon,” she added.
Criticizing the opposition for exploiting the wheat situation, Azma affirmed that no one would exploit the farming community for personal gain.
Addressing a meeting under Nawaz Sharif’s leadership to discuss the wheat crisis, Azma highlighted Nawaz Sharif’s extensive experience in national governance as a three-time prime minister, emphasizing the importance of leveraging his expertise.
Sources indicated that Nawaz Sharif was briefed on negotiations with protesting farmers over delayed wheat purchases and a reduction in this season’s procurement target.
The PML-N leader noted that Nawaz Sharif had directed the Punjab government to accelerate the issuance of Kisan Cards to provide interest-free loans to affected wheat growers with up to 12 acres of land.
During a separate meeting, Nawaz Sharif stressed the urgency of resolving the wheat crisis and holding those responsible for irregular wheat imports accountable.
Presiding over another meeting in Model Town, Nawaz Sharif instructed Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and other provincial officials to address the wheat crisis promptly.
