ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting to tackle concerns regarding wheat scam, demand, supply, and purchase, stressing the importance of transparency and efficiency in the procurement process.
Attended by federal ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb, Rana Tanveer, Ahad Cheema, Jam Kamal, and Shaza Fatima, the meeting highlighted the government’s commitment to food security and farmers’ economic well-being.
Prime Minister Sharif directed the suspension of Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation Ltd (Pasco) managing director and general manager (procurement) for negligence in utilizing technology for wheat procurement.
He emphasized the need for transparency and ordered the development of a mobile application to streamline wheat procurement.
Additionally, he called for a third-party audit of Pasco stocks.
Sharif underscored the importance of using technology for a transparent wheat purchase process and ensuring commodity insurance for farmers’ economic protection. He instructed Pasco to purchase an additional 400,000 metric tons of wheat in a transparent manner.
The prime minister reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards farmer exploitation and pledged decisive action against misconduct.
He also emphasized the recognition and reward for centers and officers showing exemplary performance in wheat procurement, reaffirming the government’s commitment to agricultural development and economic prosperity.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s proactive approach reflects the government’s dedication to food security and farmer support.
The directives issued during the meeting demonstrate efforts to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in wheat procurement, showcasing the government’s commitment to agricultural development and economic prosperity.
