Sindh government to procure 1 million tons of wheat starting April 1

The Sindh government has announced that wheat procurement for the current season will begin on April 1, targeting one million metric tons at a support price of Rs3,500 per 40 kilograms, in line with federal government policy.

The move, approved by a cabinet sub-committee including Food Minister Makhdoom Mehboub-uz-Zaman, Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro, Excise Minister Mukesh Kumar Chawla, and Chief Minister’s Adviser Gyan Chand Essrani, aims to benefit approximately 330,000 registered farmers under the Hari Card system, ensuring transparency and direct payments.

For the first time, farmers will provide their own bardana (gunny bags) and receive an incentive of Rs60 per bag, credited directly to their Sindh Bank accounts. Food Minister Mehboub noted that this will simplify logistics and facilitate smoother procurement.

The Sindh government has already provided Rs84 billion in subsidies to stabilise wheat prices and ensure affordable flour availability, particularly during Ramazan. Strict accountability measures have been enforced against irregularities: 43 officers received show-cause notices, 22 were suspended, nine dismissed, and six cases referred to the Anti-Corruption Establishment.

Irrigation Minister Shoro clarified that allegations of wheat theft were unfounded, explaining that wheat procured by Sindh is stored in Punjab warehouses for logistical reasons and strategically released to meet public demand. About 200,000 metric tons of stock remains available for prudent distribution. Sindh produces roughly 4.3 million tons of wheat annually, and the procurement policy prioritises small growers who have previously received fertiliser subsidies.

Excise Minister Chawla highlighted that the Hari Card initiative, previously used to provide subsidised inputs, will now ensure fair procurement from genuine farmers. A dedicated digital portal will be launched jointly by the food and agriculture departments to manage procurement data and enhance transparency.

The Sindh government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a stable wheat supply chain, supporting farmers, and ensuring affordable flour across the province.