The federal government has unveiled a long-term National Wheat Policy aimed at securing Pakistan’s food supply, protecting farmers’ incomes, and safeguarding consumers, while building resilience to climate change and other shocks. The plan emphasizes fair pricing, targeted support for low-income households, modern storage and supply-chain improvements, and measures to improve nutrition.
Presented under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, the policy frames wheat as both a staple crop and a critical national lifeline. It is built on principles of justice and sustainability, with the stated goal of aligning farmer prices with international markets to encourage higher production and ensure fair returns for producers.
Under the policy’s pricing framework, middle-income and wealthier consumers will obtain wheat at market rates, while low-income households will receive targeted subsidies and financial assistance. The costs of these support measures are to be shared between the federal and provincial governments to ensure equitable access.
A central element of the roadmap is strategic storage: the expansion of modern grain silos and reserve management to protect wheat stocks from environmental risks and preserve quality. The federal government will focus on managing national reserves, enforcing quality standards, providing subsidies to vulnerable groups, and strengthening the overall supply chain.
Research and farmer support are also priorities. The policy calls for investment in climate-resilient, high-yield wheat varieties, improved agronomic practices, farmers’ welfare initiatives, and modern storage systems to reduce post-harvest losses and boost productivity.
Public health considerations are integrated into the strategy. Noting high rates of micronutrient deficiencies among women and children, the plan promotes multi-grain flour, fortification of wheat products, and improved storage methods to preserve nutritional value. These measures are intended to reduce malnutrition and childhood stunting while enhancing workforce productivity.
The government said the policy will be finalized through inclusive consultations with federal and provincial authorities, farmer organizations, and the food industry to build broad ownership and ensure effective implementation. Minister Hussain emphasized the government’s determination to prevent any bread shortages, guarantee fair profits for farmers, maintain stable prices for consumers, and strengthen the nation’s ability to withstand global market volatility and natural disasters.
Concluding the presentation, the minister urged adoption of forward-looking food security models in line with international best practices to bolster Pakistan’s capacity to face future climate and supply risks.
