PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has decided to launch a new agricultural policy to tackle worsening wheat crises in the province and end the dependence on Punjab and the Centre.
According to official sources, amid a worsening wheat crisis in the province, the KP government has taken a hard decision to introduce a new agricultural policy aimed at reducing the province’s dependence on the federal government and Punjab for wheat supplies.
Sources said the new scheme will be launched next year to encourage small farmers to cultivate wheat. Under the initiative, farmers will be provided financial assistance along with fertilisers and certified seeds to boost wheat production across the province.
The provincial government also plans to rehabilitate barren land affected by water shortages. Steps will be taken to improve irrigation systems and ensure an adequate water supply for agriculture.
Currently, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa requires 5.3 million metric tons of wheat annually, but the province produces only 1.4 million metric tons, creating a significant shortfall that is met through imports from other regions.
Due to the ongoing shortage, the price of flour has surged in local markets. A 20-kilogram bag of wheat flour is selling for Rs. 2,600, while the same quantity of fine flour is being sold for Rs. 2,800.
Officials expressed hope that the new agricultural policy will help stabilise wheat production in the coming years and ensure food security for the province.
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