Farmers urge timely wheat policy as climate risks threaten crop output

Farmer representatives Khalid Mahmood Khokhar of Pakistan Kissan Ittehad and Syed Mahmood-ul-Haq Bukhari of All Pakistan Kissan Foundation used a Saturday press conference to urge the government for an early wheat policy. According to Profit, they warned that climate risks, water scarcity and erratic weather could hurt farm output and food security. They argued that timely decisions, sound farm planning and fair returns for growers are essential to keep crop production steady.

Khokhar backed maximum wheat cultivation and asked for an early policy announcement so growers can plan the coming season. He asked authorities to weigh a Rs5,000 per maund price for wheat, a proposal put forward by the National Assembly's Standing Committee. Khokhar also cautioned that a possible Super El Niño could add risks to wheat and other major crops. Water supply to farmers is reported 25% lower than a year earlier.

Bukhari said growers face uncertainty over crop prices and state support after sowing, and he called for policies that offer more predictable returns. He also asked the government to help surplus sugar exports move on time and to address difficulties confronting wheat and sugarcane growers. Khokhar separately proposed an independent price commission to set crop prices, and raised concern about falling cotton output and its effect on textile and ginning businesses.