Farmers Group Marching Towards Lahore
Published on: May 8, 2024.
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Pakistan Kissan Ittehad (PKI) to Organize March from Multan to Lahore on May 10
Pakistan Kissan Ittehad (PKI) has announced its plans to organize a march from Multan to Lahore on May 10 to address their concerns and protest against the wheat issue.
During a press conference held on Sunday, Chairman Pakistan Kissan Ittehad Khalid Khokhar revealed that thousands of peasants, along with their families, tractor-trollies, and animals, will participate in the march. The protest will continue until the imposition of an agricultural emergency in the province.
Khokhar highlighted the demands for an agricultural emergency, which includes the immediate commencement of wheat procurement, reduced electricity tariffs, and a decrease in urea fertilizer prices by the government.
Addressing the wheat crisis, Khokhar alleged corrupt practices behind the decision to import wheat, stating that there is already an ample wheat stock within the country, making such a move unnecessary. He called for strict punishment for those involved in the scandal.
Furthermore, Khokhar expressed the farmers’ distress regarding their inability to procure wheat, as it is affecting their capacity to sow essential crops such as cotton and rice.
Agriculture plays a vital role in Pakistan’s economy, with agricultural exports significantly contributing to the country’s revenue. Khokhar emphasized the significance of this sector and criticized the minimal allocation of funds to agriculture, which currently stands at only 0.8% of the total GDP. He questioned the country’s potential for progress with such meager investment in agriculture.
In light of these issues, Khokhar urged civil society members to support the farmers’ protest and recognize their importance in society.
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