Kathmandu— Local levels in three municipalities within the Jumla district are set to begin fruit farming through the development of dedicated orchards, as part of a broader initiative spanning several districts of Karnali Province. The project, overseen by the Ministry of Land Management and Cooperatives at Karnali Province and implemented through the Fruit Development Directorate in Surkhet, aims to expand commercial fruit cultivation in hilly and mountainous regions. Farmers, groups, cooperatives, and agricultural entrepreneurs will receive 50 percent grants to support their participation.

Project Scope and Participating Districts

The initiative extends beyond Jumla’s Himali, Sinja, and Kanakasundari Rural Municipalities to include Banphikot, Musikot, and Sanibheri of Rukum Paschim; Siddhakumakha and Sharada of Salyan; Chhedagad and Junichande of Jajarkot; Narayan, Athbisk, and Chamundabindrasaini of Dailekh. Kalikot, Mugu, Humla, and Dolpa districts are also included in the program’s reach.

Fruit Varieties Suited to the Region

Considering the unique climate and geographical characteristics of Karnali Province, the project will focus on cultivating a variety of fruits including apples, walnuts, oranges, and kiwifruit. This selection is intended to maximize yields and ensure suitability for the region’s growing conditions.

Financial Support for Farmers

To incentivize participation and promote sustainable fruit farming practices, the program offers grants covering 50 percent of project costs. These funds will be distributed to individual farmers, farmer groups, cooperatives, and agricultural entrepreneurs, providing crucial financial support for establishing and maintaining orchards. Province project manager Chitra Bahadur Rokaya stated that this grant system is designed to encourage expansion and commercialization of fruit farming.

The initiative seeks to not only increase local fruit production but also enhance the income of farmers in these remote hilly and mountainous areas.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.