Food Secretary visits wheat procurement centres

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Apr, 2026) Punjab food Secretary Dr Kiran Khurshid paid surprise visits to various wheat procurement centers in Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura and Faisalabad to ensure effective monitoring of the wheat procurement campaign.

During the visits, she conducted a detailed review of administrative arrangements, facilities and transparency mechanisms, said a handout issued here on Sunday.

The Secretary directed that wheat procurement must strictly follow the “first come, first served” principle to ensure equal opportunities for all farmers.

She emphasized that the role of middlemen has been completely eliminated and that the government was directly purchasing wheat from farmers. A zero-tolerance policy has been implemented to prevent any irregularities or complaints during the procurement process.

She further stated that, as per the directions of the Punjab Chief Minister, wheat was being procured at a rate of PKR 3,500 per 40 kg, and the procurement targets would be achieved within the stipulated timeframe.

Dr Kiran Khurshid personally inspected wheat weight and moisture levels and reviewed record accuracy along with the digital monitoring system.

The Secretary also directed that payments to farmers must be ensured within 72 hours through a digital system to promote transparency and convenience.

According to available data, 2,091 farmers have been registered in Nankana Sahib so far, and 1,761.4 metric tons of bardana (gunny bags) have been issued. A total of 6 vehicles have been unloaded, and 62 metric tons of wheat have been procured.

In Faisalabad, 4,287 farmers have been registered, and 454.5 metric tons of gunny bags have been distributed. Additionally, 12 metric tons of wheat have reached procurement centers, and the procurement process was being further accelerated.

In Sheikhupura, 7 wheat procurement centers have been established where all necessary facilities were being provided to farmers.