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Lukashenko sets tasks for farmers on harvest, winter sowing

MINSK, 13 October (BelTA) – Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko outlined tasks for the agricultural sector regarding the harvest campaign and the sowing of winter crops as he made personnel decisions on 13 October, BelTA has learned.

While approving appointments to the positions of chairpersons of district executive committees, the head of state drew attention to the agricultural sector and current tasks requiring special focus from the local government.

According to the president, the situation with the maize harvest is a particular cause for concern. In some districts, the crop is still being harvested for silage, even though it has already dried out. Meanwhile, some are waiting for the weather to improve and the soil to dry after recent rains before harvesting for grain, despite the risk that delayed harvesting can lead to poor-quality grain due to fungal growth on the cobs. Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized that local authorities need to carefully assess the process and make a balanced decision. “Assess the situation locally. If you can produce silage, do it, but prioritize quality,” the head of state urged, noting that the quality of the silage directly impacts cattle production. Where maize is being harvested for grain, crimping may be preferable to drying, especially as the required machinery should be readily available on farms.

The president also warned of the need to finish the sugar beet harvest. Although the work is on schedule, there is no room for complacency due to the unstable weather.

Regarding the sowing of winter crops, Aleksandr Lukashenko demanded that the work be completed in the shortest possible time: “This week, all sowing must be completed. We must stop sowing winter crops. We'll make up for it with spring crops [if necessary].”

Among the head of state's instructions was the timely execution of autumn field work, including plowing and fallowing. “Yes, it has been an unusual year [for agriculture], everything has shifted, moved around... But who can we blame? On one hand, it's unusual; on the other, it's a high-yield year. Therefore, we must work hard. Under no circumstances can we feel complacent. We must harvest the maize, harvest the sugar beets, and we must plow the soil,” Aleksandr Lukashenko concluded.

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