PM orders inquiry into unnecessary wheat import: Rana Tanveer

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday ordered an inquiry into the import of wheat, despite having sufficient reserves.

This was stated by Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanvir Hussain, while responding to point of orders raised by the lawmakers in the National Assembly on Wednesday.

He said it was the caretaker government which imported wheat by ignoring the carry-forward stock of 4.1 million tons in the country. He said this import of commodity disturbed the procurement targets of wheat in provinces. He, however, made it clear that agriculture is a devolved subject under which provinces procure wheat as per their targets. He said all provincial governments procure 25 percent of the total production of the crop, but in view of the carry-forward stock, provinces are finding it difficult to meet that target.

The Minister further informed the House that he has also written letters to provincial chief ministers to immediately start procurement and enhance their wheat targets.  He said the government is making all possible efforts to save farmers from losses.

Rana Tanvir Hussain said the Prime Minister is also focusing on targeted subsidy to facilitate farmers.

He also assured the House to ensure fertilizer supply and fixation of prices for next crop season. On the question of lawmakers, he said a historic relief package will be announced in the budget to facilitate small farmers.

The House has been adjourned to meet again tomorrow at four p.m.