ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has tasked Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to present a plan, within 24 hours, for increasing the number of farmer markets, allowing private sector to establish their own markets and rationalization of the regulatory regime.

The decision was taken during a high level meeting chaired by the Prime Minister in Islamabad today (Tuesday) to review the progress of administrative measures for bringing down prices of essential commodities.

The plan is aimed at shifting towards compliance regime, doing away with the condition of obtaining NOC from the government for setting up a farm market.

The Prime Minister also tasked the provincial chief secretaries to present a comprehensive plan for rationalization of wheat grinding ratio to enhance production of flour and to bring down flour prices.

He expressed serious concern over the existing price difference at wholesale and retail level, varying even at district level.

Imran Khan also took serious notice of the complaints of non-adherence to officially determined price list of essential commodities, at retail level, and directed that strict action be taken against violators.

Provincial chief secretaries briefed the meeting about action taken against various flour mills over violations including less grinding of wheat released by the provinces.