Islamabad – In a fiery live reaction to Pakistan’s Budget 2025-26, Khalid Khokhar, President of the Pakistan Kissan Ittehad (PKI), slammed the government for “repeating the same neglect” of the agriculture sector, despite its critical role in the economy.
Key Complaints from Farmers’ Leader
1. No Relief on Input Costs
- Fertilizer, Diesel & Electricity Still Unaffordable
Khokhar criticized the budget for failing to reduce prices of key farm inputs, leaving small farmers struggling with soaring production costs.- “Where is the subsidy on urea? Where is the reduction in diesel prices?” he demanded.
2. No Increase in Support Prices
- Wheat, Cotton, Rice Farmers Left in the Lurch
Despite inflation, the government did not raise minimum support prices (MSPs) for major crops, which Khokhar called a “betrayal of farmers.”
3. Lack of Loan Relief & Debt Forgiveness
- Small Farmers Still Drowning in Debt
Unlike industry-friendly measures, the budget offered no major debt relief or interest-free loans for struggling farmers.
4. No Significant Investment in Water & Tech
- Drip Irrigation, Climate Resilience Ignored
Khokhar highlighted the absence of modern farming infrastructure funding, despite Pakistan’s worsening water scarcity and climate crises.
Government’s Defence: What Was Offered?
While Khokhar’s outburst went viral, officials pointed to some limited agriculture measures, including:
✅ Tax exemptions on some agricultural machinery imports.
✅ Minor subsidies for solar tube wells in select regions.
✅ Digital land record reforms to help farmers access credit.
However, critics argue these steps are “too little, too late” for a sector contributing 24% of GDP and employing 40% of the workforce.
Why Farmers Feel Betrayed
- History of Broken Promises: Past budgets also underfunded agriculture, leading to protests.
- Urban Bias?: Tax breaks for industries vs. neglect of rural Pakistan fuels resentment.
- Food Inflation Crisis: If farmers aren’t supported, crop shortages could worsen price hikes.
What’s Next?
- Protests Looming: Farmer unions threaten nationwide rallies if demands aren’t addressed.
- Opposition Backlash: PTI, JUI-F, and other parties may exploit rural discontent.
- Pressure for Amendments: Will the government revise the budget to include last-minute farmer relief?
Final Verdict: Another Missed Opportunity?
Khalid Khokhar’s outburst reflects deep frustration in Pakistan’s farming community. With rising costs, climate threats, and stagnant yields, many see this budget as another blow to the backbone of the economy.
Will the government listen before it’s too late? Or will farmers’ anger boil over into another wave of unrest?
