As a result of strenuous efforts by the Punjab government, the prices of essential items have been reduced to a large extent, due to which availability of everyday items has been ensured to the citizens, saod provincial Food Minister and Punjab Price Control Cabinet Committee Chairman Bilal Yasin while presiding over a high-level meeting held at Civil Secretariat Committee Room on Tuesday.
Bilal Yasin said that essential items are being sold at government fixed rates in ‘Sahulat’ as well as critical bazaars across Punjab. He informed that work on formulating a policy to provide special package to small farmers is being completed expeditiously to incentivise them in increasing fruits and vegetables productivity. Provincial Minister for Industries Ch Muhammad Shafique, Minister for Agriculture Dr Farrukh Javed, additional chief secretary and administrative secretaries of departments concerned were also present on the occasion. Bilal Yasin said that stern action is being ensured against those selling water filled meat and milk, while laboratories are being provided kits to check adulteration in edibles. He said a great deal of reduction has been registered in retail and shop prices. He directed that stern action should be taken against those elements who indulge in overcharging and profiteering. Bilal Yasin said that prices of everyday items have become moderate and stabilised in all disterns of Punjab, due to positive steps taken by the Punjab government, benefiting the low-income citizens. He directed food authorities to ensure stern action against those selling adulterated oil, which is injuries to the health to the general public, in order to ensure provision of hygienic food to the people.