Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has decided to set the proposed wheat price for 2027 at Rs 4,500 per maund. This price has been increased by Rs 1,000 compared to last year. The government hopes that this move will provide better compensation to farmers and increase wheat cultivation in the coming season.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the aim of the price increase is to reduce the financial difficulties faced by farmers due to rising production costs, fuel prices and inflationary pressures.
Shehbaz Sharif said that the proposed price can help farmers meet their production costs and earn reasonable profits. The government is also keen to increase local production and bring stability to the agriculture sector.
The prime minister thanked Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her cooperation in the consultation process for the decision. He also appreciated the cooperation of Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
According to the government, Pakistan has had to import wheat in the last two years. Increasing local production is important so that the country can reduce its dependence on foreign markets to meet its food needs.
The Punjab government has also announced a price of wheat of Rs 4,500 per maund. According to the provincial agriculture department, Punjab produces about 76 percent of the country’s wheat requirements. Timely announcement of the price can help farmers plan their crops.
However, whether farmers will benefit from the price hike will not depend on the announcement alone. Seed, fertiliser, diesel, irrigation and other agricultural costs also affect farmers’ profits.
Similarly, the procedure for purchasing wheat and the implementation of the government policy will also be important. The Rs 4,500 per maund announced by the Prime Minister should be considered as the proposed price for the time being, until further details of its implementation and procurement arrangements are revealed.
An important aspect of price fixing is also to protect the interests of consumers. The challenge for the government will be to ensure that farmers get adequate compensation and on the other hand, the price of flour remains within the reach of the common citizens.
If effective procurement, agricultural support and proper market arrangements are also ensured along with the proposed price, this measure can boost local wheat production and food security.
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