Chaitra Paddy Cultivation Begins in Jhapa, Area Expected to Shrink Due to Farmer Shift to Maize

Jhapa. The planting of Chaitra paddy has begun in the district. The Agriculture Knowledge Center Jhapa stated that the Chaitra paddy planting started from the Kachanakawal Rural Municipality area. Sagar Bista, Chief of the Agriculture Knowledge Center, informed that the planting is expected to be completed across the district by the second week of Chaitra.

He mentioned that compared to traditional farming systems, the practice of paddy cultivation using machinery is increasing in the district, so while some areas have already prepared seedlings, others are in the process of sowing seeds. There are 10 paddy planting machines (transplanters) in various locations across the district.

According to Chief Bista, although Chaitra paddy was cultivated in about 20 thousand hectares in the district last year, the area for paddy cultivation is expected to decrease by 15 to 20 percent this year as farmers' interest has shifted towards maize cultivation.

He stated that farmers were discouraged and turned to alternative crops because the price of Chaitra paddy last year was only Rs. seven hundred per man (40 kg), resulting in inadequate returns. He said, "Due to last year's price, farmers did not pay much attention to Chaitra paddy cultivation." Companies supplying paddy seeds also reported that they could not sell seeds as expected this year.

Although the 'Hardinath-1' variety of paddy is predominantly cultivated in the district, farmers have started planting the 'Hardinath-6' variety after Morang's Arju Rice Mill agreed in principle to purchase it for Rs. one thousand per man, ensuring sales and a comparatively better price.

While there is increased interest among farmers towards 'Hardinath-6' due to guaranteed sales and a relatively better price, most farmers still prioritize 'Hardinath-1', according to him.

Similarly, the 'Chharuwa Paddy' technology has also been promoted in the district with the support of the Agriculture Knowledge Center. The center identifies new locations every year and encourages farmers to adopt this technology, while older farmers continue to sustain it on their own.

Chief Bista stated that although the Chharuwa technology yields good paddy production, farmers face problems with weed control due to a lack of attention to technical aspects. He informed that there is no shortage of chemical fertilizers required for paddy cultivation in the district.