LAHORE – UNS : Markazi Kisan League (MKL) Chairman Chaudhry Zulfiqar Ali Olakh and President Ashfaq Warak have termed the Punjab government’s latest budget anti-farmer, saying it once again ignores the key challenges facing the agricultural sector.
In a joint statement, the two leaders expressed reservations over the Rs60 billion allocated for agriculture, arguing that, as in previous years, the funds may be spent on non-productive projects and publicity campaigns rather than providing meaningful support to farmers and the rural economy.
They said the budget fails to address the rising costs of seeds, fertilisers and agricultural inputs, which continue to increase the financial burden on farmers. According to them, growers are already struggling with inflation and higher production costs, while the government has offered little practical relief.
The leaders warned that failure to address the problems facing agriculture could create serious food security challenges in the future. They stressed that the sector remains a vital component of the national economy and requires immediate policy attention.
Referring to cotton, Pakistan’s second-largest cash crop, they said production has continued to decline in recent years, forcing the country to import expensive cotton and spend valuable foreign exchange. They urged the government to examine the causes behind the decline and formulate effective policies to revive cotton cultivation and increase productivity.
The MKL leaders called on the government to move beyond symbolic measures and adopt sustainable policies aimed at strengthening agriculture, increasing crop yields and promoting agricultural exports.
They also emphasized the need to establish value-added industries in rural areas to create employment opportunities, improve farmers’ incomes and contribute to long-term economic stability.
The leaders said meaningful investment in agriculture is essential for ensuring food security, supporting rural communities and strengthening Pakistan’s overall economy.
