Question

what name is given to the cutting and gathering of a food crop like wheat or paddy

Answer 1

Here's the answer as much I know-

Harvesting must be the answer

Answer 2

Cutting and gathering of food crops are known as Harvesting.  Generally, it takes the duration of four months to cut crops.

It will look like rice or wheat.  By using cutting equipment it is harvested by people.  

The process of cutting out grains by the harvested plant is called as thrashing.   It spread on small area and grains come out after a few months.