Syangja farmers shift to high-value commercial crops

Farmers in Syangja are transitioning from traditional grain crops to high-value commercial agriculture. In Chapakot, farmer Prem Narayan Pangeni has expanded his operation to 61 ropanis, focusing exclusively on the Malbhog banana. Pangeni, who replaced rice and maize with 6,200 plants, reports that 2,200 currently bearing fruit generate over Rs 1.1 million annually. He projects earnings will exceed Rs 3 million once the plantation matures. Commercial floriculture is also expanding in Galyang and Kaligandaki, where farmers cultivate marigolds. Growers note that flowers are less susceptible to wildlife damage and have reduced reliance on imports from India. While price competition remains, local producers are increasingly supplying regional markets. Simultaneously, traders led by Gauri Lal Sanjyal are distributing Jumla apples directly to residents. By bypassing traditional supply chains, this door-to-door model sells organic fruit at Rs 150 per kilogram, mitigating post-harvest losses for Jumla farmers while providing consumers with an affordable alternative to imported produce.