Farmers Outrage Over Wheat Support Price
Farmers across Pakistan have strongly opposed the government’s newly announced wheat support price of Rs. 3,500 per 40 kilograms, calling it unjust and insufficient. Leading farmer organizations, including Pakistan Kissan Ittehad, Kissan Board Pakistan, and Farmers Associates Pakistan, have demanded a minimum price of Rs. 5,000 per 40kg to cover their escalating production costs.
Rising Costs and Financial Strain
According to growers, the current wheat price fails to reflect the actual cost of production, which they claim ranges between Rs. 3,500 and Rs. 4,000 per 40kg. With fertilizer, diesel, and seed prices skyrocketing, farmers argue that the government’s rate leaves no room for profit. “We are not asking for charity; we just want fair compensation for our hard work,” said one farmer representative.
Comparison with India and Regional Disparities
Farmers have also highlighted a regional imbalance, noting that in India, wheat production costs are around Rs. 2,200–2,250 per 40kg, and agricultural inputs are considerably cheaper. They fear that Pakistan’s current pricing policy will make wheat cultivation financially unviable, further discouraging production.
Concerns Over Procurement and Climate Challenges
The decision to end official wheat procurement has also sparked anger among growers, who warn it will empower middlemen and weaken farmer earnings. Many also cited climate change, floods, and droughts as major hurdles that have already reduced yields.
A Struggling Sector at a Crossroads
Wheat remains Pakistan’s most crucial staple crop, central to the nation’s food security and agricultural economy. However, the government’s procurement inefficiencies and IMF-driven reforms have added further pressure to an already struggling farming community. Unless the government revises the support price, experts warn Pakistan may face reduced wheat cultivation and a potential food supply crisis in the coming seasons.
