Ramechhap farmers report record Junar sales amid rising demand

KATHMANDU: Junar (sweet oranges) from various wards of Manthali and Ramechhap municipalities have ripened and turned golden yellow, prompting farmers to harvest and sell them. In Ramechhap Municipality’s Wards 6 (Okhreni) and 7 (Sukajor), and Manthali Municipality’s Wards 4 (Salu), 13, and 14 (Phulasi), the Junar harvest has begun. Farmers reported a significant increase in production this year compared to the previous year, attributed to favorable weather conditions and technical support in pest control and vitamin usage.

According to Bhawani Basnet, a technician with the Prime Minister’s Agricultural Modernization Project, Junar sales from the orchards in Manthali and Ramechhap municipalities are estimated to generate NPR 227.5 million this year. Last year, sales amounted to NPR 190 million.

Himal Tamang, a farmer from Okhreni in Ramechhap Municipality-6, has seen a 50% increase in production from his 15 ropani (approximately 0.76 hectares) farm compared to last year. He plans to sell Junar worth NPR 350,000 this year, up from NPR 250,000 last year. Similarly, Dilmaya Tamang, cultivating Junar on 7 ropani (approximately 0.35 hectares), reported a 40% increase in production. Sher Bahadur Tamang, another farmer from Okhreni, noted a 35% rise in production from his 20 ropani (approximately 1 hectare) orchard.

Farmers like Ram Kumar Karki and Gyanuka Karki from Sukajor also reported ripened Junar ready for sale. Women have been equally active in Junar farming, with Gyanuka Karki sharing that transitioning to commercial Junar farming has provided better income compared to traditional household tasks.

Farmers have also benefited from cultivating intercropping crops like soybeans, mustard, garlic, onions, and cauliflower within Junar orchards, generating additional income. Farmers like Yugraj Pakhrin and Degraj Tamang from Okhreni have also observed increased Junar production this year.

The major Junar-producing areas in Ramechhap Municipality include Himaganga, Rampur Sukajor, Okhreni, Gothgaon, and Ramechhap. Crop Protection Officer Krishna Bhujel confirmed a nearly 50% rise in Junar production across these areas compared to last year.

Similarly, in Manthali Municipality’s Wards 4 (Salu), 13, and 14 (Phulasi), farmers reported increased production of Junar and oranges. Tulbahadur Tamang, a farmer from Ward 14, highlighted the significant growth in production this year.

The Prime Minister’s Agricultural Modernization Project has established Junar zones across 13 wards in Manthali and Ramechhap municipalities. Project chief Thirlal Gaire attributed the production boost to subsidies, technical support, pest control treatments, vitamins, and mechanization provided to farmers.

Last year, 520 hectares in the Junar zone were dedicated to citrus fruits, producing 4,380 metric tons and generating NPR 199.4 million in sales. Of this, 422.5 hectares were for Junar, 78 hectares for oranges, and 20.8 hectares for lemons. This year, Junar cultivation has expanded to 437 hectares, with expected production of 4,401 metric tons, projected to generate NPR 227.5 million.

Currently, Junar is being sold for NPR 60–75 per kg, depending on size. The golden-yellow orchards have become popular spots for visitors, with many coming to Okhreni to take selfies and enjoy the scenic beauty, according to Junar trader Himal Tamang.