MULTAN: The Punjab government has introduced comprehensive measures to safeguard wheat production and support farmers, including a detailed Wheat Harvesting Plan 2026 and a financial assistance package worth Rs23 billion.
The plan has been prepared by the Punjab Directorate of Agriculture Information on the directions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, emphasising wheat’s importance as a staple component of the human diet. Officials said the ripening stage of wheat is critical, and careful planning during this phase can significantly reduce post-harvest losses. According to agricultural experts, nearly 10 per cent of wheat production is lost after harvesting due to mismanagement and environmental factors. The plan highlights the importance of monitoring weather conditions, particularly unexpected rains, strong winds, and sudden temperature increases, which can adversely affect crop yield.
Research by agriculture expert Naveed Asmat Kahloon indicates that farmers should rely on weather forecasts and follow official guidelines to determine the ideal harvesting time - when grain moisture content is between 10 to 12 per cent. Harvesting too early can result in shriveled grains, while delays may cause grain loss in the field. Farmers have been advised to make prior arrangements for labour, machinery, and storage materials, including threshers, tractors, combine harvesters, and clean storage sacks. In case of rain, harvesting operations should be paused until conditions improve.
The plan also stresses proper threshing practices, timely handling of harvested bundles, and the use of clean, pest-free storage facilities to prevent losses caused by insects and moisture. Warehouses should be thoroughly cleaned, treated, and sealed before storing wheat to maintain grain quality. Meanwhile, under a special relief package, the Punjab government is providing Rs23 billion through the Chief Minister’s Cheap Diesel Program to support wheat growers.
The initiative will benefit farmers owning up to 25 acres of land, with an estimated 4 million farmers across the province expected to benefit. Farmers can register for the programme by calling the helpline 1000 or applying through the official web portal. Additionally, funds will be directly transferred to the accounts of more than 800,000 Kisan Card holders to ensure transparency and ease of access.
