Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said the government would set the wheat support price after consultations with provincial governments, ensuring adequate returns for farmers without placing an excessive burden on consumers.
Chairing the inaugural meeting of the National Agriculture and Food Security Council (NAFSC) in Islamabad, he stressed that the price should be announced before the sowing season begins to enable farmers to plan their crops and receive fair compensation for their efforts.
The PM said existing wheat stocks were sufficient to meet the country’s domestic needs and warned that strict action would be taken against those involved in hoarding the commodity.
Describing agriculture as a key pillar of Pakistan’s economy, he said the sector could help accelerate economic growth in a short period. He assured the provinces of the federal government’s full cooperation in advancing agricultural development.
Shehbaz identified the provision of affordable fertilisers, quality seeds, modern agricultural machinery and technical assistance for efficient water management as key priorities. He also called for fair crop prices, particularly to protect the interests of small and medium-scale farmers.
Highlighting the livestock sector’s export potential, he said the government was working to expand overseas sales of Pakistani halal meat. He praised Punjab’s farmer-focused initiatives, including aquaculture, shrimp farming and direct financial assistance through the Kisan Card. He also recognised Sindh’s efforts to support the farming community and improve access to essential facilities.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Sindh Food Minister Makhdoom Mahboob-uz-Zaman briefed the meeting on their respective governments’ agricultural policies and farmer support programmes. Participants also received updates on initiatives in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.