Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced wheat package for farmers of the province, reported 24NewsHD TV Channel.
Punjab government approves funds worth Rs 15 billion under the Wheat Support Fund for 5.5 lakh wheat farmers. Direct financial support will be given to wheat farmers through Kisan Card.
CM Maryam Nawaz announces exemption from fixed tax and subsidy for wheat farmers this year besides free storage facility for four months will be provided to protect wheat from weather effects and farmers from market pressure.
The govt has decided to implement EWR (Electronic Warehouse Receipt) system. The farmers storing wheat under EWR system will receive electronic chit/receipt which will be given to the bank within 24 hours like a cheque and a loan of up to 70pc of the total cost will be available.
Punjab government has also announced that ban imposed on transportation of wheat and flour across provincial and district borders will be lifted.
The Bank of Punjab will finance the private sector for the renovation and construction of warehouses for wheat storage. The Punjab government will pay a markup of five billion rupees to provide storage facilities to wheat farmers.
Punjab government to pay markup of loans obtained from Bank of Punjab up to Rs 100 billion to flour mills and green license holders for wheat purchase.
CM Maryam decides to get cabinet approval for immediate and mandatory purchase of wheat by flour mills and green license holders and mandatory storage of wheat up to 25% of the total storage capacity.
Punjab government also decides to contact the federal government for export of wheat and byproducts.
On the occasion, CM Maryam said government will not let the farmer suffer, adding that if the farmer has planted wheat, then the wheat farmer will get full benefit and compensation. CM Maryam claimed farmers are asset and government will continue to support the, at all cost.