Pakistan increases wheat procurement target

The Pakistani Federal Minister for Food and Agriculture Nazar Muhammad Gondal said the government had enhanced the wheat procurement target to 7.5 million tonnes for the next wheat crop.

Nazar said that financial constraints or the Bardana (ginny bag) issue will not be allowed to hinder wheat procurement, adding that the government would ensure achievement of the target.

He said a sufficient quantity of urea and other fertilisers was available in the country and the government was fully vigilant on the issue to avoid any shortage.

The minister suggested that zoning of crops should be adopted for improving their per acre yield. He also said the government was making serious efforts to promote solar energy, drip and sprinkle irrigation in the country and increase the use of certified seeds.