In a startling revelation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been informed of a meticulously orchestrated plan that led to the importation of surplus wheat during the caretaker government’s tenure, resulting in a staggering loss exceeding 300 billion rupees.
According to these sources, significant strides have been made in investigating what has been termed as the “wheat scandal,” following directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif himself.
In a briefing to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of National Food Security disclosed that during the caretaker government’s term, upon the Ministry of Finance’s recommendation, the private sector was granted complete exemption on wheat imports, instead of adhering to a predetermined limit. Additionally, wheat traders were exempted from customs duties and general sales tax.
The briefing further revealed that despite a wheat production of 28.18 million tonnes last year, the caretaker government opted to import an additional 2.45 million tonnes. However, Pakistan Agricultural Storage & Services Corporation Limited (PASSCO), along with provincial departments, fell short of the required procurement target of 7.80 million tonnes, managing to purchase only 5.87 million tonnes from growers.
Notably, it was highlighted that the Ministry of National Food Security disregarded the recommendations of the Ministry of Commerce and Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) when submitting a summary for approval by the interim cabinet.
While the wheat crop stands ripe across the country, with provincial governments setting prices per 40kg, concerns mount as Punjab and Balochistan administrations are yet to commence purchasing from farmers. Consequently, the absence of government procurement has led to wheat being sold below the official rates, exacerbating anxieties among farmers.
The unfolding wheat scandal underscores a pressing need for accountability and transparency in the management of vital agricultural resources, prompting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take decisive action to address the issue.
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