Lahore, April 21, 2025: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari on Sunday strongly defended the provincial government’s wheat procurement policy and lashed out at PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, accusing him of using “harsh language” and politicising farmer-related issues for personal gain.
Speaking at a press conference at the Directorate General Public Relations (DGPR), Bokhari said Punjab had introduced a comprehensive Rs110 billion relief package to support farmers, including Rs5,000 per acre compensation and a Rs25 billion wheat support programme.
She emphasized that Punjab’s policy shift—deciding not to procure wheat directly—was a strategic move under the new framework aimed at stabilising the market and empowering farmers. “No province, including Sindh, has announced a wheat support price,” Bokhari said. “Yet, some are politicising the issue while ignoring the plight of their own farmers.”
She highlighted that under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s leadership, Punjab was offering unprecedented incentives to boost agricultural productivity. “We have already distributed 9,500 tractors under a Rs10 billion subsidy scheme. An additional 5,000 super seeders will be given out through an Rs8 billion subsidy,” she announced.
Special performance-based rewards include a free tractor worth Rs4.5 million for the province’s top wheat grower, and Rs1 million prizes for the best-performing farmers in each district.
Bokhari further elaborated on the role of the private sector in wheat procurement. “Private entities have been allowed to buy wheat freely, and flour mills are required to procure at least 25% of the crop,” she said. “The Bank of Punjab has extended a Rs100 billion credit line, with Rs55 billion already disbursed through Kisan Cards.”
Rejecting criticism from PPP leaders, Bokhari said that Bilawal should look inward at Sindh’s failure to provide tangible relief to its farmers. “Those making loud claims must first answer why they are silent about agricultural distress in their own province,” she remarked.
She concluded by reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. “We are tracking wheat movement thoroughly, and our support is not just for farmers—it extends to the welfare of the entire province.”
