In Tanahun, farmers have transitioned from small-scale cultivation to commercial orange farming, significantly impacting their financial status. Shuk Narayan Shrestha, an exemplary farmer from Umachowk, Myagde Rural Municipality-2, reported earnings of approximately $55,556 from orange sales this year. Initially a hobby, orange cultivation has evolved into a lucrative business for many in the region.
Bishwo Bahadur Adhikari, alongside his brother Nirmal, shifted focus from politics to orange farming, now yielding an annual income of around $51,587. Bhim Bahadur Rana, another prominent figure and orange farmer, earned $23,810 this year. The local farmers, who once grew oranges for personal use, have now embraced commercial production, attracting contractors to their orchards for direct purchase.
Nirmal Bahadur Adhikari highlighted that in Umachowk alone, orange sales reached about $198,413 this year. The district's farmers collectively generate $3.17 to $3.97 million annually from orange farming. The Agriculture Knowledge Centre in Tanahun reported a production of 11,518 metric tonnes of oranges, valued at approximately $3.17 million for the fiscal year 2023/24, with expectations to increase to $3.97 million. The center supports farmers through orchard management and consultations, with subsidies provided for area expansion, contributing to the yearly increase in orange cultivation.
Source: The Rising Nepal