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Wheat Cultivation Cost Calculator 

Not just another farm management idea —this is India’s first-of-its-kind DIY cost decoder for wheat farming. 

Designed for farmers, agri-advisors, students & agri-entrepreneurs. This toolkit breaks down your full season cost, step by step, rupee by rupee from plough to post-harvest.

It's practical, transparent, and based on real rates, practical logic, and zero guesswork. We have also given options for modern and high tech practices, inputs, and methods to choose from. 

Let’s decode your field’s economics, your kheti budget will never be the same again!
Wheat Cultivation Cost Calculator
🌱 1. PRE-SOWING & LAND PREPARATION
Sets the physical and biological foundation for the crop. Without proper land prep, even good seeds underperform.
Planning, Preparation, Organizing the Land for Cultivation with Multiple Options
Includes: Land inspection/supervision , Irrigation to soften soil, Ploughing and harrowing, Manure/compost sourcing and application, Land leveling
Labor time (in man-days or hours) o Machinery hire rates per hour o Quantity of inputs per acre (e.g., manure in kgs) o Medium-size tractor used o Local wage rates o Single round of major activities (unless otherwise noted)
SNO Consideration for Cost/s Standard Cost/s Actual - Proposed Units - Numbers Total
1.11 Manual Inspections & Supervision of the Farm Land and Operations by Self
Manual Inspections & Supervision of the Farm Land and Operations by Self:1. What: Time spent by farmer/owner for checking land status and coordinating work. 2. Quantity Estimation: Typically 1–2 visits of 2–3 hours each per acre before operations start. 3. Cost Components: Travel, stationery, and time value of self. 4. Rate Basis: Travel/local mobility + informal documentation cost.
1.12 Drone-based Field Scouting (TECH OPTION)
Drone - Modern Tools, Technology & Methods to replace / substantiate Inspections & Supervision of the Farm Land & Operations.:Drones equipped with multispectral cameras can quickly assess field variability (soil health, moisture stress, early signs of pests/diseases) providing detailed maps.
1.13 Soil Testing & Analysis: (TECH OPTION)
Modern Tools, Technology & Methods to replace / substantiate Inspections & Supervision of the Farm Land & Operations.:Using GPS-enabled soil sampling to collect precise samples for detailed lab analysis of nutrient levels, pH, and organic matter. This data informs precise fertilizer recommendations.
1.14 Remote Sensing (Satellite Imagery): (TECH OPTION)
Remote Sensing Modern Tools, Technology & Methods to replace / substantiate Inspections & Supervision of the Farm Land & Operations.:Satellite imagery can provide historical and current data on vegetation health, growth patterns, and potential problem areas across the entire farm.
1.15 GIS (Geographic Information Systems):
GIS platform - Modern Tools, Technology & Methods to replace / substantiate Inspections & Supervision of the Farm Land & Operations.:Integrating all this spatial data into a GIS platform allows for informed decision-making on field layout, zoning, and targeted interventions.
1.16 AI-powered Planning Tools:(FUTURISTIC TECH OPTION)
Modern Tools, Technology & Methods to replace / substantiate Inspections & Supervision of the Farm Land & Operations.:Software that analyzes historical data, weather forecasts (including localized predictions for Jaipur), soil analysis, and market trends to suggest optimal planting dates, seed varieties, and input quantities.
1.20 Watering the Land (By Sprinklers / RAIN GUN)) by Hired (Own) Labour
Watering the Land (By Sprinklers/ RAIN GUN) by Hired (Own) Labour:1. What: Initial moistening to soften soil before ploughing. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 round/acre, 1–2 laborers for 4–6 hours. 3. Cost Components: Labor wages, water sourcing, pipes, and sprinkler fittings. 4. Rate Basis: ₹300–₹600/day/laborer + ₹500–₹1,000 materials + ₹1,000–₹1,500 if sprinkler rented.
1.31 Ploughing (Primary Tillage) – Tractor by Custom Hire
Ploughing (Primary Tillage) – Tractor by Custom Hire:1. What: Deep turning of soil to aerate and prepare land. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 pass/acre, duration ~1.5–2 hours. 3. Cost Components: Tractor + fuel + driver + monitoring. 4. Rate Basis: ₹1,200–₹1,800/acre depending on soil type & tractor model.
1.32 Raised Bed Cultivation (CHOICE OPTION)
Raised Bed Cultivation :In recent years many farmers are looking to take up ZERO TILLAGE Cultivation. The benefits vis a vis cost is not yet established on wide scale
1.41 Manure/Compost Sourcing & Transport (REGULAR FARMING PRACTICE)
Manure/Compost Sourcing & Transport:1. What: Organic manure (e.g., FYM, Vermi-Compost) purchase or collection. 2. Quantity Estimation: ~2–4 tons per acre depending on crop & soil. 3. Cost Components: Material cost + loading/unloading + transport. 4. Rate Basis: ₹1,000–₹2,500/acre based on manure type and source.
1.42 Organic / Natural / Sustainable / Regenerative Farming (CHOICE OPTION)
Organic / Natural / Sustainable / Regenerative Farming:Very Popular among Urban / Investor Farmers who are adopting hundred percent chemical free farming. Also enables a Branding Option
1.50 Manure/Compost Placement by Hired Labour
Placement Manure/Compost by Hired Labour:1. What: Spreading manure across field manually. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 workers/acre; 1-day job. 3. Cost Components: Labor charges only. 4. Rate Basis: ₹500–₹1,200/acre (depends on area and layout method).
1.60 Disc Harrowing (Secondary Tillage) by Custom Hire
Disc Harrowing (Secondary Tillage) by Custom Hire:1. Quantity Estimation: 1 round/acre post manuring. 2. Cost Components: Tractor + disc harrow + driver + supervisor. 3. Rate Basis: ₹1,000–₹1,500/acre.
1.70 Leveling by Custom Hire (OPTIONAL & NOT REQUIRED IF RAISED BED CULTIVATION)
Leveling (Optional) (Laser Assisted) by Custom Hire:1. What: Ensures uniform water flow and root contact. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 round with leveller per acre. 3. Cost Components: Tractor + leveller equipment + driver + minor supervision. 4. Rate Basis: ₹800–₹1,200/acre.
Total Costs
Total Per Unit cost
Note:
 
🌱 2. SOWING & GERMINATION PHASE
Precision in sowing impacts germination uniformity, plant density, and ultimate yield potential.
Seed Variety, Quality, Treatment and Sowing for Smart Farming
o Seed selection and purchase o Seed treatment (fungicides/inoculants) o Sowing labor or mechanized sowing o Initial irrigation for germination
o Seed cost per kg × recommended kg/acre o Treatment cost per kg o Sowing cost per hour/ acre (manual or machine) o Irrigation -Local Water Availability & unit cost per hour or per kilolitre o Single sowing pass, favorable weather conditions
SNO Consideration for Cost/s Standard Cost/s Actual - Proposed Units - Numbers Total
2.11 Regular Seed Variety Selection / Smart and Climate Resilient Varieties / Fortified Varieties (CHOICE OPTION)
Seed Variety Selection - Regular / Smart and Climate Resilient Varieties / Fortified Varieties :Seed Variety Selection - Smart and Climate Resilient Varieties. Fortified Varieties
2.12 Seed Sourcing & Transport
Seed Sourcing & Transport:1.What: Procurement of certified or traditional seeds. 2. Quantity Estimation: 4–15 kg per acre depending on crop. 3. Cost Components: Seed cost, transport, minor loss/spoilage. 4. Rate Basis: ₹30–₹200/kg (crop dependent) + ₹100–₹300 for transport.
2.21 Regular - Seed Treatment (Organic / Chemical)
Regular - Seed Treatment (Organic / Chemical):s. What: Pre-sowing treatment for disease/pest prevention. 2. Quantity Estimation: Treatment for entire seed batch. 3. Cost Components: Chemicals/organic liquids + labor for mixing. 4. Rate Basis: ₹100–₹500 per acre depending on method.
2.22 Seed Coating (TECH OPTION)
Seed Coating (TECH OPTION):Seed Coating (TECH OPTION)
2.31 Sowing / Dibbling by Labour
Sowing / Dibbling by Labour:1.What: Manual placement of seeds. 2. Quantity Estimation: 2–4 laborers per acre, 1-day job. 3. Cost Components: Labor only. 4. Rate Basis: ₹600–₹1,200/acre depending on seed type and spacing.
2.32 Sowing by Seed Drill (Custom Hire)
Sowing by Seed Drill (Custom Hire):1. What: Mechanized sowing using tractor-driven drills. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 round/acre. 3. Cost Components: Tractor + drill + operator. 4. Rate Basis: ₹1,200–₹1,800/acre
2.33 Sowing By Seed Cum Fertilizer Drill
Sowing By Seed Cum Fertilizer Drill:Sowing By Seed Cum Fertilizer Drill
2.34 Transplanting by Machine
Transplanting by Machine :Transplanting by Machine
2.40 Pre-Emergence Irrigation
Pre-Emergence Irrigation:1. What: Initial light irrigation to trigger germination. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 irrigation cycle. 3. Cost Components: Water source, pump cost, fuel/electricity. 4. Rate Basis: ₹500–₹1,000/acre
2.51 Germination Monitoring
Germination Monitoring:1. What: Early-stage crop inspection to confirm sprouting. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 visits per acre. 3. Cost Components: Owner's time, travel. 4. Rate Basis: Minimal direct cost.
2.52 Remote Emergence Monitoring (TECH OPTION)
Remote Emergence Monitoring :Remote Emergence Monitoring
Total Costs
Total Per Unit cost
Note:
 
🌿 3. NURSERY / EARLY CROP CARE
Young plants are most vulnerable during this stage; survival rates are influenced by weed control, pest management, and micronutrient support.
Critical Growth Stage With Many New Age Tech Options
o Weeding (manual or chemical) o Pest/disease check-ups & light sprays o Top dressing of basal fertilizers o Light irrigation or moisture management
o Weeding cost per hour / acre (manual) or spray input cost per litre o Fertilizer quantity (kg/acre) × unit price o Sprayer labor/hourly charge o One major weeding round o Minimum two field checkups o Soil already has some organic base
SNO Consideration for Cost/s Standard Cost/s Actual - Proposed Units - Numbers Total
3.10 Gap Filling by Labour
Gap Filling by Labour:1. What: Replacing ungerminated spots with new seeds/ transplanting excess from other areas 2. Quantity Estimation: 2–3 laborers for a few hours. 3. Cost Components: Labor + seeds. 4. Rate Basis: ₹300–₹600
3.21 Weed Emergence - Inspection - Manual Removal - Intercultural Operation
Weed Emergence - Inspection - Manual Removal - Intercultural Operation:Weed Emergence - Inspection - Manual Removal - Intercultural Operation
3.22 Weeding by Hand Held Power Tools / Mini Tractors
Weeding by Hand Held Power Tools / Mini Tractors :Weeding by Hand Held Power Tools / Mini Tractors
3.23 Weeding by Automatic Robots
Weeding by Automatic Robots :Autonomous robots equipped with cameras and AI can identify and remove weeds mechanically or with targeted herbicide application. ALSO FUTURE OPTION of o GPS-Guided Precision Herbicide Application: Sprayers that use GPS to apply herbicides only in areas with weed infestations, reducing herbicide use.
3.31 Chemical Fertilizer - Nutrient Management - Traditional Methods
Chemical Fertilizer - Nutrient Management - Traditional Methods :Visual Inspection through regular field visits
3.32 Modern Remote Sensing -Chemical Fertilizer - Nutrition Need Assessment
Modern Remote Sensing -Chemical Fertilizer - Nutrition Need Assessment :o Drone-based Nutrient Monitoring: Drones with specialized sensors can assess crop health and nutrient deficiencies across the field. o Leaf Color Charts and Canopy Sensors: These tools help assess the nitrogen status of the plants, allowing for timely and precise nitrogen application.
3.40 Fertilizer Procurement
Fertilizer Procurement:1. What: Purchase of chemical or organic fertilizer. 2. Quantity Estimation: 30–80 kg/acre depending on crop. 3. Cost Components: Fertilizer + transport. 4. Rate Basis: ₹1,500–₹3,000/acre
3.51 Fertilizer Application (Manual)
Fertilizer Application (Manual):.What: Spreading fertilizer by hand. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 laborers/acre. 3. Cost Components: Labor only. 4. Rate Basis: ₹500–₹800/acre
3.52 Drone Use for Fertilizer Application
Drone Use for Fertilizer Application :Deployment of Drones for Liquid Fertilizer Application
3.61 Conventional Methods Pest & Disease Incidence Assessment
Conventional Methods Pest & Disease Incidence Assessment :What: Preventive pest/disease control using manual or power sprayers. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 round per acre. 3. Cost Components: Chemicals/organic spray, labor, equipment. 4. Rate Basis: ₹800–₹2,000/acre
3.62 Modern Methods For Pest & Disease Management - Weather Monitoring / Remote Sensing
Modern Methods For Pest & Disease Management - Weather Monitoring / Remote Sensing :Drones with high-resolution cameras and AI-powered image analysis can identify early signs of pest infestations or diseases, allowing for localized treatment.
3.63 Integrated Pest Management (IPM)/ Organic / Biological Control Agents
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)/ Organic / Biological Control Agents :A holistic approach that combines biological control, cultural practices, and targeted pesticide application based on pest scouting and economic thresholds. Introducing beneficial insects or microorganisms to control pests naturally.
3.64 Manual Pesticides Spray / Application
Manual Pesticides Spray / Application :Manual Pesticides Spray / Application
3.65 Drone Use for Pesticides Spray Application
Drone Use for Pesticides Spray Application :Drone based Sprayers equipped with GPS and nozzle control technology can target specific areas with pests or diseases, reducing the amount of pesticides used.
3.7 Irrigation Cycle (1–5 Times) (SAME METHOD AS EARLIER)
Irrigation Cycle (1–5 Times) (SAME METHOD AS EARLIER):1. What: Routine watering. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 cycles over 2–3 weeks. 3. Cost Components: Fuel/electricity, water charge. 4. Rate Basis: ₹700–₹1,500/acre per round
Total Costs
Total Per Unit cost
Note:
 
🌾 4. VEGETATIVE TO FLOWERING
High nutrient demand phase—plant growth surges and canopy expands. Any stress here directly hits yields.
Quality Output Considerations and Efficiency Management
o Nitrogen fertilizer application (Urea) o Foliar sprays or micronutrient application o Irrigation rounds o Field surveillance & light pest control
o Urea (kg/acre) × market rate o Spray ingredients + equipment use o Number of irrigations o Supervision time and cost (if outsourced) o Standard nitrogen dose of ~40–50 kg/acre o At least one foliar nutrient spray
SNO Consideration for Cost/s Standard Cost/s Actual - Proposed Units - Numbers Total
4.1 Second Round of Weeding
Second Round of Weeding:1. What: Weed removal as crop grows taller. 2. Quantity Estimation: 2–3 laborers/acre. 3. Cost Components: Labor 4. Rate Basis: ₹800–₹1,200/acre
4.2 Support or Training for Vines (ONLY IF APPLICABLE)
Support or Training for Vinesc(ONLY IF APPLICABLE) :1. What: Bamboo/rope framework for climbing crops. 2. Quantity Estimation: ~100 bamboo poles + ropes. 3.Cost Components: Bamboo, twine, labor. 4. Rate Basis: ₹1,500–₹3,000/acre
4.3 Nutrient Spray (Foliar) (REPEAT SAME METHOD)
Nutrient Spray (Foliar) (REPEAT SAME METHOD):1. What: Micronutrient sprays to boost growth. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 rounds. 3. Cost Components: Liquid inputs + sprayer + labor. 4. Rate Basis: ₹500–₹1,200/acre
4.4 Second Pest/Disease Spray (REPEAT SAME METHOD)
Second Pest/Disease Spray (REPEAT SAME METHOD):1 What: Pest control closer to flowering. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 round/acre 3. Cost Components: Inputs, sprayer, labor 4. Rate Basis: ₹800–₹1,800
4.5 Miscellaneous Operations / Activities
Miscellaneous Operations / Activities :Any Missing / Additional Activity
Total Costs
Total Per Unit cost
Note:
 
🌻 5. FLOWERING TO MATURITY PHASE
A delicate phase: flowering, grain setting, and grain filling occur. Stress here leads to shriveled grains or crop failure.
Monitoring & Maintaining Growth
o Final dose of nutrients o Disease/pest protection sprays o Irrigation (especially pre-harvest moisture control) o Lodging prevention efforts (if any)
o Per-acre dose of late-stage fertilizers o Chemical/pesticide use in ml/acre o Miscellaneous risk-prevention efforts o No unseasonal rainfall o One nutrient spray and one final irrigation o Crops not affected by high winds
SNO Consideration for Cost/s Standard Cost/s Actual - Proposed Units - Numbers Total
5,1 Irrigation (Late Rounds) REPEAT SAME METHODS
Irrigation (Late Rounds) REPEAT SAME METHODS :1. What: Final water rounds pre-harvest. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 per acre 3. Cost Components: Fuel/pump rent 4. Rate Basis: ₹700–₹1,200
5.2 Final Crop Inspection
Final Crop Inspection:1. What: Assessing crop health and harvest readiness. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 visits by owner or expert. 3. Cost Components: Travel + minor tools. 4. Rate Basis: ₹200–₹500
5.3 Sample Testing & Collection
Sample Collection and Testing :
Total Costs
Total Per Unit cost
Note:
 
🌾 6. HARVEST & POST-HARVEST PHASE
This is the yield realization phase. A good harvest can still be compromised by delays, bad handling, or poor threshing.
Final Stages of Harvest-Post Harvest and Modern Marketing Options
o Harvest labor or combine harvester hire o Threshing (manual or mechanical) o Bagging, cleaning, drying o Storage or local transport to mandi o Self-monitoring or commission paid
o Combine hire rate per acre OR manual labor per man-day o Bags per quintal and their cost o Transport cost per km or per ton o Cleaning/drying cost per quintal o Yield in range of 15–22 quintals per acre o Transport within 5–15 km radius
SNO Consideration for Cost/s Standard Cost/s Actual - Proposed Units - Numbers Total
6.10 Pre Harvest Inspection and Assessment MANUAL / SCIENTIFIC (QUALITY TESTING)
Pre Harvest Inspection and Assessment MANUAL / SCIENTIFIC :
6.21 Harvesting (Manual Labour)
Harvesting (Manual Labour):1. What: Cutting crop by sickle or knife. 2. Quantity Estimation: 3–6 laborers/acre. 3. Cost Components: Labor 4. Rate Basis: ₹1,000–₹2,000/acre
6.22 Harvesting by Hand Held PowerTools
Harvesting by Hand Held PowerTools :
6.24 Harvesting by Combine (if mechanized)
Harvesting by Combine (if mechanized):1. What: Machine harvest for cereals. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 hour/acre 3. Cost Components: Combine rent, fuel, operator 4. Rate Basis: ₹2,500–₹3,500/acre
6.30 Bundling & Transport to Threshing Floor
Bundling & Transport to Threshing Floor:1. What: Moving harvest bundles. 2. Quantity Estimation: 2–3 laborers/acre 3. Cost Components: Labor, cart/trolley 4. Rate Basis: ₹800–₹1,500/acre
6.4 Threshing (Manual or Custom Hire)
Threshing (Manual or Custom Hire):1. What: Grain separation from husk/straw. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 hours/acre 3. Cost Components: Thresher rent, labor 4. Rate Basis: ₹1,000–₹2,000/acre
6.5 Winnowing (Manual)
Winnowing (Manual):1. What: Cleaning grain using wind/shaking. 2. Quantity Estimation: 1–2 laborers 3. Cost Components: Labor only 4. Rate Basis: ₹300–₹600/acre
6.6 Final Bagging & Storage
Final Bagging & Storage:1. What: Packing grains in sacks for storage/sale 2. Quantity Estimation: 10–15 bags/acre 3. Cost Components: Bags + labor 4. Rate Basis: ₹400–₹800/acre
6.7 Farm Transport & Storage
c:
6.81 By Product Handling
By Product Handling :
6.82 By Product Transport & Storage
By Product Transport & Storage :
6.91 Local Transport to Mandi / Collection Centre
Local Transport to Mandi / Collection Centre:1. What: First mile connectivity for sale 2. Quantity Estimation: 1 tractor trolley per 1–2 acres 3. Cost Components: Trolley rent, loading labor 4. Rate Basis: ₹800–₹1,500
6.92 Direct Sale - Trade / Bulk Buyers
Direct Sale - Trade / Bulk Buyers :
6.93 Branded Consumer Sale - E Com / Own Retail
Branded Consumer Sale - E Com / Own Retail :
6.X Post-Harvest Field Cleanup
Post-Harvest Field Cleanup:1. What: Removal of stubble, plastic, debris 2. Quantity Estimation: 2 laborers 3. Cost Components: Labor + basic tools 4. Rate Basis: ₹300–₹600
Total Costs
Total Per Unit cost
Note:
 
7. Management & Capital Costs Allocation
SNO Consideration for Cost/s Standard Cost/s Actual - Proposed Units - Numbers Total
7.1 Land Lease / Rental Costs
Land Lease / Rental Costs:
7.2 Equipments and Capital Assets - Repair, Maintenance and Depreciation
Equipments and Capital Assets - Repair, Maintenance and Depreciation:
7.3 Interest On Working Capital
Interest On Working Capital :
7.4 Operational Overheads, Insurance, Taxes Levies etc
Operational Overheads, Insurance, Taxes Levies etc :
7.5 Family Professional Management Inputs
Family Professional Management Inputs :
7.6 Profit Margin
Profit Margin :
6.7 Opportunity Cost for Natural Resource Depletion
Opportunity Cost for Natural Resource Depletion:
Total Costs
Total Per Unit cost
Note:

Summary
Cost Breakdown
Cost Category Total Unit/Number Cost/Unit
🌱 1. PRE-SOWING & LAND PREPARATION 0.00 1 0.00
🌱 2. SOWING & GERMINATION PHASE 0.00 1 0.00
🌿 3. NURSERY / EARLY CROP CARE 0.00 1 0.00
🌾 4. VEGETATIVE TO FLOWERING 0.00 1 0.00
🌻 5. FLOWERING TO MATURITY PHASE 0.00 1 0.00
🌾 6. HARVEST & POST-HARVEST PHASE 0.00 1 0.00
7. Management & Capital Costs Allocation 0.00 1 0.00
Total 0.00 1

Simple to use, surprisingly insightful—this tool is made for the real world, not just classrooms. 

Use your own local data, tweak the rates, and see the magic. 

Whether you're planning ahead or reviewing costs, give it a try. 

NOTE: For many cost components we have given more than one option so check all items to avoid any duplicity and wrong calculation...

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For any clarity kindly connect with us...
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