Kissan Ittehad declared on Sunday nationwide protests from May 10 in response to the government's failure to purchase wheat from farmers.
Speaking at a press conference in Multan, Pakistan Kissan Ittehad Chairman Khalid Mahmood Khokhar lamented the dire situation faced by farmers, stressing that the absence of government procurement has left them with no choice but to take to the streets.
Khokhar outlined the protest plan, stating that it would kick off with symbolic funeral prayers for agriculture, followed by a march to Lahore, gathering farmers from across the country. Tractors and livestock will accompany the protesting farmers, underscoring the widespread impact of the crisis.
Highlighting the financial losses incurred by farmers, Khokhar revealed that the community has suffered a staggering Rs. 400 billion hit due to low wheat prices.
He bashed the government's decision to prioritise wheat importers over local farmers, accusing them of sacrificing the interests of the agricultural sector.
Expressing concern over the outflow of foreign exchange, Khokhar pointed out that the country lost $1 billion due to the government's inaction on wheat procurement.
Moreover, he criticized the exorbitant prices of urea fertilizer, stressing that farmers are forced to pay inflated rates or resort to the black market for essential agricultural inputs.
Khokhar vehemently condemned the neglect faced by farmers, asserting that those responsible for their financial distress should be held accountable.
The chairman underscored the severity of the wheat crisis, attributing it to the flawed policies of the government. He lamented the lack of support for the agricultural sector, citing the huge disparity between the procurement cost and selling price of wheat, which has dealt a severe blow to farmers' livelihoods.
In a poignant reflection on the societal disregard for farmers, Khokhar decried the plight of those who contribute immensely to the nation yet remain marginalized and overlooked.
He concluded by condemning policymakers for stifling agricultural development, citing the stark disparity between the cost of wheat production and its market price, which has persisted for years without redress.
