Punjab to procure 3.5 million metric tons of wheat

Punjab Food Department has finalised the arrangements to procure 3.5 million metric tons wheat worth rupees 85 billion directly from the growers through 380 procurement centres across the province. Secretary Food Punjab, Squadron Leader (Retd) Muhammad Irfan Elahi, in an interview with APP here on Wednesday, said that Food department would launch the procurement drive from April 17 to continue it till the target is achieved.
"Nearly 380 procurement centres have been established in wheat growing areas in the province. This number can be increased as and when genuinely needed." Divisional Commissioners, District co-ordination Officers and Director Food Punjab have been directed to check the overall performance of the procurement centres, while reports would be submitted on daily basis to keep the Chief Minister abreast of the situation.
"Wheat procurement will continue daily from 7am to 7pm without break-even on holidays", he said. As per past practice, nearly four million gunny bags will be distributed among farmers on personal surety, he said. Muhammad Irfan Elahi said for the convenience of the growers, a toll free telephone would be re-activated. He warned that corrupt and lethargic officials will be taken to task. Secretary Food said that on the special directive of the Chief Minister, eight high level special mobile inspection teams had been constituted at divisional level to monitor the process of wheat procurement throughout the province.