The Punjab Wheat Support Program wheat season. Unlike previous years, the focus has shifted from “buying everything” to “supporting the farmer” through digital tools and private market involvement.
The Support Price (Rate)
For the 2026 season, the benchmark support price is set at Rs. 3,500 per 40kg (1 Mann).
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Why this rate? It is designed to cover the rising costs of seeds and fuel while ensuring farmers make a fair profit.
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Price Floor: The government acts as a monitor to ensure private buyers do not pay farmers less than this set price.
The Role of the “Kissan Card”
The Kissan Card is now the “Identity” of a farmer. Without this card, you cannot access most of the benefits of the 2026 program.
Key Benefits of the Card:
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Interest-Free Loans: Get up to Rs. 30,000 per acre to buy seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
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Direct Subsidies: Money for diesel or electricity is transferred directly to your card account.
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Easy Payments: When you sell your wheat, the payment is processed digitally to ensure you get your full amount without “middleman” deductions.
New Procurement (Buying) Strategy
In 2026, the government is not the only buyer. They are encouraging a Public-Private Model:
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Private Buyers: Flour mills and private traders are encouraged to buy directly from farmers at the official rate.
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Strategic Reserves: The government will only buy and store about 2.5 million metric tons for emergencies (to prevent flour shortages in cities).
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Eco-Friendly Bags: This year, the government has replaced old jute bags with biodegradable eco-bags to reduce crop wastage.
The E-Warehouse Receipt System (No More Panic Selling)
One of the biggest confusions for farmers is: “What if the market price is low right now?”
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The Solution: You can store your wheat in government-approved warehouses.
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The Receipt: You will get a digital receipt (EWR).
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The Loan: You can take this receipt to a bank and get an instant loan (up to 70% of your crop’s value).
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The Result: You can pay your bills now and sell your wheat later when the market price goes up.
Eligibility Criteria
To benefit from the 2026 Support Program, you must meet these simple requirements:
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Land Size: Priority is given to small farmers (owning 1 to 12.5 acres).
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Registration: Your land must be registered with the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA).
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Active SIM: You must have a mobile SIM registered in your own name/CNIC.
How to Apply?
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Check Status: Send your CNIC number to 8070.
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Get the Card: If eligible, visit any HBL Konnect center or the Agriculture Department office in your Tehsil.
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Digital Portal: You can also register via the “Punjab Zarai Thali” mobile app.
Summary Table for Quick Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Official Price | Rs. 3,500 per 40kg |
| Main Tool | Kissan Card (Mandatory) |
| Loan Limit | Rs. 150,000 (Maximum for 5 acres) |
| Target | 600,000 Small Farmers |