Beni (Myagdi), January 26: Orange farming in Myagdi has witnessed remarkable growth this year, bringing a substantial boost to farmers' income. According to the Agriculture Knowledge Center's Chief, Sanjiv Bastola, oranges worth NPR 334.6 million have been sold across the district, marking a significant increase compared to last year.
Photo Courtesy: RoNB
The district produced 4,781 metric tons of oranges this season, as determined by a crop-cutting study conducted by the office. This figure surpasses last year’s production of 3,600 metric tons, which had generated NPR 240 million. The expansion in production has energized local farmers, many of whom have expressed optimism about the rising profitability of orange farming.
Currently, 820 hectares of land are dedicated to orange cultivation in Myagdi. Out of this, 425 hectares consist of fruit-bearing orange trees. In particular, Ward Nos. 3 and 4 of Beni Municipality contributed over NPR 60 million in orange sales alone. Harvesting is still underway in key areas such as Marek of Beni Municipality and Dosalle of Annapurna Rural Municipality.
Farmers are selling oranges directly from their orchards at prices ranging from NPR 60 to NPR 120 per kilogram. This direct sale mechanism has enabled many farmers to benefit from competitive market prices. Prem Paija, Chairperson of the Dosalle Commercial Orange Growers' Group, highlighted the enthusiasm among farmers due to the bumper harvest and quick sales.
Oranges from Myagdi are not only meeting local demand but are also being distributed to major markets such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, Bhairahawa, and Narayanghat. With growing interest in orange farming and favorable market conditions, the district is cementing its reputation as a hub for high-quality orange production.
This surge in orange production and sales reflects the resilience and dedication of Myagdi's farmers and the potential for agricultural development to drive economic growth in the region.
