LAHORE: The Punjab Cabinet has approved the interim wheat policy 2020-21 for release of wheat to flour mills under which a 20-kg flour bag will be available at Rs 850 instead of Rs 1050 in the market.

It was decided in the Cabinet meeting to provide wheat to flour mills at the rate of Rs 1475 per maund and the interim wheat policy will continue for two months. The Punjab Food Department will release wheat to functional flour mills only.

While chairing the meeting here on Thursday, Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar said that the government is committed to providing relief to the people despite the economic crunch. "The decision was made to provide flour to the people at an affordable rate and the interim policy will be strictly monitored," he added.

The Cabinet also approved one-year extension in the contract of DG Punjab Forensic Science Agency Dr Muhamamd Ashraf Tahir and a draft bill for amending the Punjab Commission on the Status of Women Act 2014-15. It approved the constitution of a search committee for the appointment of vice-chancellor in public sector universities working under Higher Education Department Punjab and amendments in Punjab Infectious Diseases Ordinance 2020. Meanwhile, the Cabinet approved amendments in Punjab Urban Immovable Property Tax Rules 1958 and also decided to table an Act in the Punjab Assembly for the establishment of Time Institute in Multan.

The CM told the meeting that his team is working hard and every necessary step will be taken to provide relief to the citizens. The availability of oxygen in hospitals will be ensured; the health department is directed to take necessary steps in this regard.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2020