The wheat crop has been harvested in the country, but disheartened farmers have started feeding their wheat to animals due to the lack of fair prices, as reported by national media.
According to a report by ARY News, the government sets an official wheat price every year. However, this year, despite the harvest being ready, no official rate has been set yet, leaving farmers unable to get a fair price for their hard work. As a result, disappointed farmers have started feeding their wheat to animals.
Farmers say that, just like last year, no wheat price has been fixed this year. They use expensive diesel, electricity, and fertilizer to cultivate the crop, yet they still do not receive a reasonable price.
They stated that selling wheat at a price lower than their production cost is not worthwhile. Instead, it is better to feed the wheat to animals so at least they get fed properly, which is why they are feeding it to their livestock.
It is worth mentioning that a few days ago, the Chairman of Kisan Ittehad, Khalid Hussain Bath, said in a press conference that farmers will set the wheat price themselves, fixing it at 4,200 rupees per 40 kg. He added that wheat can only be sold at a lower price if the government provides cheaper fertilizer and electricity.
He further stated that farmers only demand a fair rate, and if the government does not offer a good price for wheat, they will protest after Eid. Khalid Hussain Bath also claimed that farmers are receiving electricity bills of up to 5 million rupees, and raids are being conducted at their homes.
