Bilawal Bhutto Zardari Declares 'Agriculture Emergency' in Punjab, Warns of Farmer Catastrophe

In a powerful and impassioned address, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has declared an "agriculture emergency" in Punjab, painting a stark picture of the province's struggling farming community. Speaking with profound concern, Bilawal lambasted the current Punjab government, asserting that its policies, or lack thereof, have pushed farmers to the brink of financial ruin, threatening a widespread crisis.

During his direct engagement with distressed farmers in areas like Dipalpur and Arifwala, Bilawal witnessed firsthand the despair gripping the agricultural sector.

He highlighted the devastating reality that farmers are being forced to sell their wheat crops at prices significantly below the official support price, often as low as Rs3,000 per maund, despite the government-mandated rate being Rs3,900. This drastic shortfall is exacerbated by the provincial government's alleged failure to procure wheat, leaving farmers with no viable market for their produce and deepening their debt burdens.

Bilawal didn't mince words in his condemnation, accusing the Punjab administration of a deliberate strategy to marginalize farmers.

"The government has not bought even a single grain of wheat from farmers," he declared, emphasizing that this negligence amounts to an economic assault on the backbone of the nation. He further alleged rampant corruption within the system, pointing fingers at officials for importing wheat at higher prices while local farmers struggle to sell their own yield.

This, he argued, is a clear example of prioritizing personal gain over national interest and farmer welfare.

The PPP Chairman warned of grave consequences if the situation is not immediately addressed. Drawing a chilling parallel to past tragedies, he expressed fears of a surge in farmer suicides and widespread social unrest if the government continues to ignore their plight.

He underscored that the crisis extends beyond mere financial loss; it is a human tragedy impacting countless families and threatening the food security of the entire nation.

Bilawal reiterated the PPP's unwavering commitment to farmer rights. He announced that his party would vociferously raise these critical issues in both the National Assembly and the Punjab Assembly, demanding accountability and urgent relief measures.

He called for an immediate, transparent inquiry into the decisions surrounding wheat imports and exports, advocating for policies that genuinely support local agriculture and protect farmers from exploitation. The PPP chairman emphasized that the well-being of farmers is intrinsically linked to the prosperity and stability of Pakistan, urging the government to prioritize their needs before the "agriculture emergency" escalates into an irreversible catastrophe.