Former caretaker prime minister Anwarul Haq Kakar has emphasized that he did not hold the provinces responsible for the wheat import scandal, stating that the media is spreading misinformation about him.
During a press conference held on Tuesday, Mr. Kakar informed the Food Security and Research Department about the anticipated wheat production in the country, following the development of a specific procedure.
In response to inquiries from the media, the former prime minister, accompanied by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, criticized the media for distorting his remarks.
Mr. Kakar was addressing media reports that implied he was blaming provincial governments for requesting additional wheat imports.
As reported by Dawn, approximately 3.2 million tonnes of wheat were imported between September 2023 and March 2024, with the local crop entering the market in April.
The former PM stated that the decision to import wheat was made based on data from the Food Security Department.
“The [caretaker] government had a plan to import wheat, allowing the private sector to participate. A summary outlining the wheat requirement was submitted, and the importation of wheat was carried out in accordance with established rules and regulations,” he further explained.
Prior to the 18th Amendment, the federal government held the responsibility for wheat production and managing the national requirements, encompassing import and export. However, following the implementation of the 18th Amendment, Mr. Kakar highlighted that the provinces now play a role in determining the export and import demands for wheat.
In light of the fact that our nation requires around 27 million tonnes of wheat, with a shortage of approximately 4 million tonnes, it is imperative to engage in discussions aimed at addressing this shortfall. By doing so, we can enhance production and seek a viable solution to this pressing issue, as stated by Mr. Kakar.
Floodlights in cricket stadium
Interior Minister Naqvi announced that floodlights will be installed at Nawab Bugti cricket stadium in Balochistan within three months to promote cricket. He also mentioned that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will fulfill its promise to install floodlights by September and organize PSL matches in Quetta. Additionally, the PCB will contribute to the development of cricket in Gwadar and Quetta.
Chief Minister Bugti expressed gratitude to the interior minister for the announcement. In response to a question about the ongoing protest in Chaman, the minister stated that the federal government has decided to implement a one-document system for crossing the Pak-Afghan border. He emphasized that passport and visa will be required to cross the border, and the government will not allow unauthorized crossings.
