Last Updated on: 16th April 2024, 06:55 pm
The wheat farming community in Punjab, Pakistan, is struggling because of a decrease in wheat prices caused by the Ghandam Scheme. Despite aiming to stabilize prices and ensure fair returns for farmers, the scheme has resulted in a notable drop in wheat prices. This situation has prompted farmers to voice their concerns and demands.
Ghandam Scheme Impact on Wheat Rates 2024:
Farmers in Punjab face distressing situations as they are compelled to sell their wheat below the government’s minimum support price (MSP) of Rs. 3,900 per 40 kg. Reports indicate that prices are as low as Rs. 3,200 per 40 kg, well under the MSP. Private buyers offer slightly higher rates, averaging Rs. 3,600 per 40 kg, but still below the MSP. This puts financial strain on farmers. The wholesale market reflects this decline, highlighting the need for urgent intervention.
You can also read the Bardana App for Wheat Procurement Online Registration in Punjab
Factors Affecting the Decrease in Prices:
The delay in the wheat procurement campaign by the Punjab Food Department for the 2024-25 season has left farmers vulnerable to market fluctuations, forcing them to sell their produce at low prices. Additionally, recent adverse weather conditions such as unseasonal rains and windstorms have damaged grain quality and reduced harvest output, intensifying the economic challenges for wheat farmers.
Demands of Farmers and Advocacy Efforts:
The wheat farmers in Punjab are calling for a revision of the minimum support price (MSP) to address their financial losses and ensure fair returns on investment. Additionally, they are advocating for an increase in the wheat procurement target to stabilize declining grain prices and safeguard their livelihoods. Doubling the procurement target is suggested to counter market imbalances and offer farmers better selling opportunities.
Advocacy and Future Prospects:
Stakeholders, led by Pakistan Kisan Ittehad President Khalid Khokhar, are engaging authorities to address wheat farmers’ concerns, emphasizing collaborative efforts for effective solutions. The situation underscores the importance of long-term planning and policy interventions in Pakistan’s agriculture sector, with demands for fair pricing, procurement targets, and reduced input costs calling for comprehensive reforms to ensure sustainability and resilience.
Check also, Punjab Govt Big Relief To The People By Decreasing the Roti And Naan Prices
Final Words:
The recent decrease in wheat prices in Punjab underscores the urgent need for united efforts to assist farmers and ensure the long-term viability of the agriculture industry. Despite ongoing calls for policy changes and fair pricing systems, the perseverance of Punjab’s wheat farmers remains crucial for the region’s farming sector.