Farmers urged to store wheat safely as weather turns unfavorable

With weather conditions turning unfavorable, farmers have been urged to store their harvested wheat safely at home. The Department of Agriculture issued the advisory after increased risks of damage to wheat crops left in the fields due to fog, mist, and rainfall across various parts of the country.

Farmers who have already harvested wheat and left it in the fields are especially at risk of losses. To minimise damage, the department recommends transporting the produce home and storing it properly.

Director General Prakash Kumar Sanjel also suggested using dried leaves of plants such as neem, chinaberry, and mugwort in storage containers to protect wheat from pests. These leaves should be placed about 4–5 inches above the stored grain.

The Agriculture Information Center, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, has been providing farmers with technical guidance on crop production, protection, loss reduction, and market access.

The center also advised farmers not to burn agricultural residues left in the fields after harvesting wheat and other crops. This year, wheat production is estimated to reach around 2.2 million metric tons.

Meanwhile, rising temperatures are expected to increase the population of mosquitoes, flies, and ticks, raising the risk of lumpy skin disease in cattle. Officials have urged livestock farmers to ensure their animals are vaccinated against the disease.