ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed for devising a mechanism to ensure stability in the prices of wheat across the country and give direct subsidy on flour to those living below the poverty line.

Chairing a meeting in Islamabad to review prices of daily commodities, he said there is no shortage of edible items in the country.

The Prime Minister said government would continue to take effective steps to ensure stability in prices of daily commodities, especially the flour and wheat.

He directed Ministry of National Food Security to formulate a strategy in this regard in collaboration with other relevant ministries.

Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Youth Affairs Usman Dar submitted a report compiled with help of Tiger Force volunteers enlisting ground realities about prices of daily use items.

The Prime Minister directed the provincial governments to launch a full sale drive against hoarders and profiteers with help of district administration.

Meanwhile, chairing a meeting of the National Coordination Committee on COVID-19 in Islamabad, Prime Minister Imran Khan directed all stakeholders to ensure balance between the pandemic control measures and livelihood of people.

He also particularly directed for ramping up hospitals care to cater for any rise in the COVID cases, particularly critical care equipment.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister was apprised about the current situation of the pandemic.

The National Coordination Committee endorsed the recently announced measures of the NCOC, including implementation on wearing of face masks, reduced timings of markets, restaurants and marriage halls, and enforcement of smart lockdowns.

The Prime Minister directed the NCOC to formulate future course of action in consultation with all stakeholders and issue necessary guidelines.