Farmers in Charsadda provided substandard corn seeds

CHARSADDA: The Agriculture Department officials exposed a fraud involving the distribution of substandard corn seeds and fertilizers among farmers in the flood-hit areas in Charsadda by a non-governmental organisation.

The scandal has left farmers devastated, costing them millions of rupees and jeopardizing their livelihoods.

Director of Agriculture Charsadda, Asar Khan, while addressing farmers in Nissata village, revealed that the NGO provided low-quality and expired corn seeds along with substandard fertilizers to 96 farmers across eight union councils in Charsadda district. He said that these inputs were distributed

for 768 kanals of agricultural land but failed to produce crops, resulting in significant losses for the farmers.

The farmers reported their grievances during training sessions organized by the Agriculture Department, stating that the seeds failed to germinate properly, and maize plants did not produce any yield. This led to a complete failure of their crops, wasting their time, effort, and money.

The Agriculture Department investigated the matter and confronted the NGO, demanding an explanation from it. While the NGO admitted to its mistakes and pledged to be more cautious in the future, the damage to farmers’ livelihoods remains irreparable.

Speaking on the occasion, Asar Khan emphasized the department’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of farmers.

“We will not tolerate any exploitation of farmers. If anyone has complaints or concerns, they are welcome to approach the district office of the Agriculture Department for assistance,” he added.