The Punjab Agriculture Department has advised farmers not to plant paddy before the recommended time
Lahore (Urdu Point Network, April 3, 2026) The Punjab Ministry of Agriculture has advised farmers not to plant rice before the recommended time.
A Punjab Agriculture Department spokesman said on Friday that farmers often start planting rice nurseries in late March or early April, right after the wheat harvest. “This practice leads to incomplete pollination, resulting in grains being partially filled or having fewer grains, which ultimately reduces production,” he said. He added that the expenses incurred on the crop are wasted.
He further stated that early planted rice crops also promote the growth of stem borers and other pests, which later attack standing rice or other crops.
Furthermore, early-planted rice is harvested in July, when moisture levels are high, which increases the risk of aflatoxin contamination of the crop.
“Under the Punjab Agricultural Pests Act, 1959 and its subordinate rules, 1960 (Rule 4), early sowing of paddy nurseries is a punishable offence. Therefore, farmers are strongly advised not to sow paddy before the recommended time,” the spokesman said.