Federal Secretary of Food Security removed from his position

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the relevant authority within the Ministry of National Food Security to take severe measures against Captain (R) Mohammad Asif, who was in charge of food matters.

The appointment of Captain Asif’s replacement, Fakkar Alam, a Grade 22 officer, was made in consultation with the interim Prime Minister.

According to the initial report initiated by the government regarding the import of wheat, the investigation report attributes the unnecessary import of wheat to federal institutions. Despite Punjab’s existing reserves of 40.47 lakh metric tons, an additional 35.87 lakh metric tons were imported, leading to an artificial scarcity.

Officials from the Punjab Food Department and Pasco are suspected of involvement in the alleged scandal, as per the report.

The investigation has uncovered that wheat was imported at rates ranging from Rs 2600 to Rs 2900 per maund, but subsequently sold at a higher price of Rs 4700 per maund. Although the import permission was initially granted for 1 million metric tons, it was surpassed without constraint.

Federal institutions purportedly permitted private companies to import wheat without adequate oversight. Furthermore, some officials from the Ministry of Finance reportedly neglected to scrutinize the extensive importation process.

Moreover, the wheat import persisted from September 26, 2023, to March 31, 2024, resulting in a substantial surplus in the market. The comprehensive report is expected to be presented to the government within three days.

It’s worth noting that the wheat import has incurred a $1 billion loss to the national treasury. Private sectors are said to have received preferential treatment in wheat imports, culminating in significant financial losses for the country.