Chairing a review meeting, the chief minister directed the food department to fast-track procurement, ensure immediate payments, and expand field outreach to meet targets.

The procurement campaign, launched on April 1, aims to purchase one million metric tonnes of wheat at a support price of Rs3,500 per 40kg.

Officials said the programme covers more than 332,000 farmers cultivating wheat on about 1.94 million acres.

Food Minister Makhdoom Mahboobuz Zaman told the meeting that only 8,958 metric tonnes had been procured so far against a target of 973,900 metric tonnes, largely due to the earlier restriction on small growers.

Taking notice, CM Shah immediately abolished the cap, removing limits on how much wheat registered farmers can supply.

Payments have also been streamlined, with funds now transferred within one day through Sindh Bank. Authorities said Rs198.3 million has already been disbursed.

“Timely payment is crucial for farmers’ trust. We must ensure that every grower is paid promptly and transparently,” the chief minister said.

He urged district administrations and relevant departments to intensify efforts and maximise farmer participation.

“All eligible farmers must be encouraged to bring their wheat to government procurement centres. This is essential not only for food security but also for supporting our growers,” he said.

Officials said monitoring has been strengthened, with assistant commissioners and agriculture teams visiting centres regularly.

A complaint control room has been set up, and 12 additional procurement centres have been opened.

“There should be zero tolerance for irregularities. The entire process must remain farmer-friendly and efficient,” CM Shah said, directing authorities to activate non-functional centres and improve logistics in low-performing districts.

Reaffirming support for the agriculture sector, he added: “Our farmers are the backbone of our economy. We will continue to support them through fair pricing, timely payments, and effective procurement policies.”