RUKUM PASCHIM: The Rukum Paschim district has witnessed a significant increase in honey production this year, with a total of 21 metric tons produced, valued at approximately Rs 25 million in the market.

Chief of the District Agriculture Development Office, Min Bahadur KC, highlighted that this year’s honey volume surpasses that of previous years, resulting in farmers generating an income of around Rs 25 million through honey sales.

Notably, the regions of Baphikot, Athbiskot, Sanibheri, Musikot, and Triveni are recognized for producing high-quality honey within the district.

In the market, farmers are selling the honey at Rs 1,000 per kilogram. Additionally, the honey produced in Rukum Paschim is exported to Kathmandu, Dang, and Nepalgunj.

Chief KC revealed that the district achieved a commendable honey production due to ample pasturelands for honeybees, resulting from limited rainfall during the honey production period.

The District Agriculture Development Office has been actively supporting beekeepers through the bee block development programme, offering need-based assistance to farmers to enhance output.

In Rukum West, as many as 200 farmers have adopted commercial beekeeping practices by utilizing modern and wooden hives, attracted by the lucrative income from honey production.

However, challenges persist in the sector, including a gradual decrease in pastureland for bees, excessive use of pesticides, and a lack of technical knowledge in beekeeping among farmers.