LAHORE (Web Desk) - Punjab has recorded a bumper wheat harvest this year, with provincial authorities announcing a series of major initiatives aimed at supporting farmers and strengthening food security.
Speaking at a joint press conference, Uzma Bukhari said Punjab continues to fulfil a significant portion of Pakistan’s food requirements, adding that this year’s wheat crop has been particularly strong. She noted that public confidence in Maryam Nawaz has been reflected in various surveys, while welfare initiatives such as “Maryam Ki Dastak” are delivering services directly to citizens.
Bukhari also highlighted ongoing development projects, including the introduction of environmentally friendly green buses, with an additional 100 buses expected to be operational by the end of April. She further announced plans to launch free metro bus services in Lahore, Rawalpindi and Multan.
Addressing concerns over wheat-related criticism, she said certain elements were spreading negative propaganda, but the government remained focused on performance and delivery.
Meanwhile, Punjab Agriculture Minister Ashiq Hussain Kirmani revealed that wheat production is expected to reach 22.5 million tonnes this year, continuing a three-year trend of increasing output. He attributed the growth to improved pricing for farmers and better agricultural policies, noting that fruit and vegetable production has also reached record levels.
For the first time, the government is distributing free, standardised gunny bags worth Rs6 billion to farmers. Registered farmers will be able to collect up to 25 maunds of bags per acre from designated centres.
Kirmani said that although a sudden rise in temperatures during March posed risks to the crop, improved weather conditions helped stabilise yields. Losses from rains and hailstorms were limited to 2–3%, with data on affected farmers currently being compiled.
He assured that the distribution process would remain transparent, with priority given to farmer card holders. The private sector has also been permitted to purchase wheat, provided a minimum price of Rs3,500 per maund is paid.
Additionally, farmers affected by floods have received Rs20,000 per acre, with total relief exceeding Rs20 billion. Authorities reiterated their commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring farmers are not left unsupported.