Farmers must not sow rice before recommended time

The Punjab Agriculture Department has advised farmers not to cultivate rice before the recommended time

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Apr, 2026) The Punjab Agriculture Department has advised farmers not to cultivate rice before the recommended time.

A spokesman for the Punjab Agriculture Department said on Friday that farmers often begin sowing rice nurseries in late March or early April, immediately after harvesting wheat. He said, “This practice leads to incomplete pollination, resulting in partially filled or fewer grains, which ultimately reduces yield.” Additionally, he added that the expenses incurred on the crop go to waste.

He further stated that early-sown rice crops also promote the growth of stem borers and other pests, which later attack standing rice or other crops.

Moreover, early-sown rice is harvested in July, when humidity levels are high, increasing the risk of aflatoxin contamination in the crop.

The spokesman said, “Under the Punjab Agriculture Pests Ordinance 1959 and its subordinate rules of 1960 (Rule 4), early sowing of rice nurseries is a punishable offense. Therefore, farmers are strongly advised not to cultivate rice before the recommended time.”