In Ramechhap, a notable increase in Junar or sweet orange (Citrus Sine Sis) production has been observed this year, attributed to the district's favorable climate and effective application of treatments and nutrients. Himal Tamang, a local farmer from Okhreni in Ramechhap Municipality-6, reported a 50 per cent increase in production on his 15 ropani plot. The rise in Junar output is particularly evident in the Himganga, Sukajor, Okhreni, and Fulasi areas of Manthali and Ramechhap Municipalities.
The Prime Minister's Agriculture Modernization Project is actively supporting the region to become a recognized zone for Junar production, as stated by Gunja Bahadur Karki, Chair of the Junar Zone Operation Coordination Committee. Through the project, farmers have received grants, technical guidance, pesticides, vitamins, and mechanization tools to enhance their cultivation practices. Bhawani Basnet, a project technician, noted that Junar cultivation increased to 437 hectares this year, up from 422.5 hectares last year, with production expected to reach 4,411 metric tons, generating approximately Rs 226 million (about USD 1.75 million).
Farmers are currently selling Junar at Rs 60 to Rs 75 (USD 0.46 to USD 0.58) per kilogram directly from their gardens, while market prices range from Rs 100 to Rs 120 (USD 0.77 to USD 0.93) per kilogram. This price increase and production boost have contributed to the local farmers' satisfaction.
Source: Khabarhub