Paddy Plantation Gains Momentum in Nawalparasi

Nawalparasi. Paddy plantation has gained momentum in Nawalparasi with the onset of monsoon rains. According to the Agriculture Knowledge Center in Nawalparasi, around 80 percent of the paddy plantation has been completed so far this year.

The center’s agricultural economist, Sanjay Dhakal, informed that out of the total 18,500 hectares of land allocated for paddy cultivation in the district, around 14,800 hectares have already been planted. He added that the plantation is in its final stages in most areas of Gaindakot, Devchuli, Kawasoti, and Madhyabindu municipalities, as well as Hupshekot rural municipality.

However, in some areas of Binayi Triveni, Bulingtar, and Baudikali rural municipalities, the plantation is still ongoing. Dhakal attributed the slow start to the weak monsoon rains at the beginning but stated that the recent adequate rainfall has encouraged farmers to plant paddy rapidly.

According to the Agriculture Knowledge Center, only around 55 percent of the district’s total 61,300 hectares of arable land have access to irrigation facilities, while the remaining 45 percent still rely on rainfall. As a result, the pace of paddy plantation is directly linked to the weather.

The district is cultivating various paddy varieties, including Mansuli, Savitri, Anadi, Jhinuwa, and several hybrid varieties. The average paddy yield per hectare in the district is around three tons, according to Dhakal.

Last year, around 18,600 hectares of land were allocated for paddy cultivation in the district. This year, the Agriculture Knowledge Center has set a target of 18,500 hectares.

According to agricultural technicians, if the weather remains favorable in the coming days, it is expected that the paddy plantation will be completed in all areas of the district this year as well.