Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s agriculture package to farmers has been hailed across the board by experts and analysts as a comprehensive package that will boost agricultural productivity.

According to a press release received by WealthPK, Chairman of Pakistan Hitech Hybrid Seed Association (PHHSA) Shahzad Ali Malik has said that farmers have not received a package of such scope in the past. This package of PKR1.8 trillion will allow the farmers to buy the best seeds and fertilizers for their crops. Farmers will also get subsidized electricity for their tube wells.

“Farmers badly need assistance from the government in the wake of wheat supply disruption after the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Also, the disruption of natural gas supplies is also going to hit production. Countries across the world are feeling the heat of the conflict, and so are we,” he said.

He added that in light of the recent floods, farmers in flood-hit areas will get a much need life-support after this package. Their crops and livestock have been washed away with a total displacement of 33 million people.

Malik said that this package represents the prudent decision-making of the prime minister, which will not only increase agriculture production, but will also help flood-affected people with their rehabilitation, and cultivation of new crops on time to meet the increasing need for food staples.

He laid stress on the importance of agriculture, saying that agriculture represents the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. Agriculture package by the government shows that it must be given the importance it needs. Interest-free loans will help a lot of farmers to get finance at their doorsteps.

The chairman reposed confidence in the ability of the Finance Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar, and said that he will make sure that fertilizers are available to farmers at reduced prices. Farmers will get a net benefit of PKR58 billion after the reduction of prices on DAP fertilizers alone.

He suggested that the government should only distribute hi-tech hybrid seeds to farmers for excellent yield which will increase their profitability. Increased profits will help improve the living standards of farmers in the country.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk