The Government of Punjab has taken major steps to ensure price stability of essential items during the holy month of Ramadan, aiming to protect citizens from artificial price hikes.
The Directorate General of Enforcement Punjab has issued a formal directive, taking notice of unjustified increases in fruit and vegetable prices ahead of Ramadan. Authorities have declared unnecessary inflation unacceptable and warned of strict action.
Benchmark Prices Fixed for Ramadan
Under the new strategy, Punjab Agricultural Marketing Regulatory Authority (PAMRA) and all deputy commissioners have been instructed to use prices from 20th Sha’ban as the official benchmark for Ramadan. Daily price notifications for fruits and vegetables will also be issued to ensure transparency.
Strict Monitoring of Markets
The government has ordered continuous monitoring of:
- Market auctions
- Supply chains
- Retail sale points
Officials have been told to take immediate action against hoarding, artificial shortages, and supply manipulation.
District-Level Price Control Meetings
All deputy commissioners have been directed to hold district price control committee meetings between February 5 and 12 to finalize enforcement plans for Ramadan pricing.
Zero Tolerance Policy Against Profiteering
The Punjab government has emphasized a zero tolerance policy toward profiteers. Authorities stated that providing relief to citizens during Ramadan is a top priority, and negligence will not be tolerated.
This move is expected to help families manage household expenses more easily during the holy month when food demand typically rises.
