In an important cabinet meeting held today under the chairmanship of Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, the Sindh government considered the alarming wheat shortage and initiated comprehensive reforms for the food department.
The cabinet was informed about the shortage of 1.59 million tons of wheat for the fiscal year 2026-27, while market prices have exceeded the government’s support rate of 3,500 rupees per 40 kilograms. The Chief Minister expressed deep concern over the hoarding operations of flour mills, traders, and private hoarders, who have exacerbated the shortage and increased prices. He emphasized the need for strict actions against such activities to stabilize the flour market and declared public welfare as the top priority.
Taking a step towards modernization, the Sindh cabinet considered the proposal to fully digitize the food department. Discussions were held on the introduction of a joint wheat management system to revolutionize the processes of wheat procurement, storage, transportation, and release through modern digital technology. The Science and IT Department has already approved it, and a detailed review by the Sindh Information Technology Company (SITC) is expected in a month.
Chief Minister Shah urged the food department to expedite the digitization process, advocated for increased private sector involvement, and the adoption of modern commodity management systems. The vision is to transform the food department into a technology-based regulatory body focused on policy-making, monitoring, and ensuring food security.
Additionally, the provincial cabinet reviewed the draft of the National Wheat Policy 2026-2030. The aim of this policy is to establish a market-based system, reduce the burden of subsidies, and promote private sector participation. A committee, comprising the Secretaries of Food, Agriculture, and Law, has been tasked with the comprehensive review of the policy. Their findings and recommendations will soon be presented to the provincial cabinet.
The outcomes of this meeting are expected to lay the foundation for significant improvements in food security and technological advancements in Sindh’s agricultural sector.