Syed Fakhar Imam, Federal Minster for National Food Security and Research chairing a meeting on major issues/concerns of the farmers. He ensured to the farmers that the grievances/issues of farmers may be taken up at proper forums. Federal Minister also appreciated, that Power Division is in process to move a summary for the ECC on Electricity rates for agriculture sectors.
Syed Fkhar Imam also stated that the issue will be resolved in collaboration with Provincial Governments because after 18thconstitutional amendment most of the components of the agriculture sector relates to the Provincial Governments.
The agenda of the meeting was issues, problems, and concerns of the farmers. Progressive growers showed their concerns on withdrawal of concession on GST on agricultural inputs and agri- commodities whereas farmers from South Punjab raised the issue of water shortage/theft. In the meeting enhancement of support price was also discussed.
The farmers raised the point that fuel price adjustment on electricity bills of agriculture tube well be divided on whole the year with flat rate. Issue regarding GST on fisheries and its feed was and Grower grievances on an unannounced ban on export of gur and shakkar was discussed as well.
Growers pointed out the cost of production has increased manifold, they also demanded to ensure the availability of fertilizer and removal of GST on pesticides including other product used in cotton crop. The meeting was ended with the vote of thanks by the chair.
The meeting was attended by Mr. Tahir Khursheed Federal Secretary for Ministry of NFS&R, former SAPM M/o NFS&R, Additional Secretary Ministry of Power, representative from Ministry of Industries and Production, Ministry of Commerce, and other Federal Government Departments.
