BAGLUNG: Potato farming in Baglung district has yielded production worth Rs 1.94 billion this year, despite a slight decline in both cultivated area and output compared to last year.
Farmers in the region typically grow potatoes during two seasons—monsoon and winter—with monsoon yields generally being higher. The upper regions of Baglung, known for their favorable climate and soil conditions, have become a hub for potato cultivation, producing crops worth millions of rupees annually.
Increased investment and support from the Agricultural Knowledge Center, Baglung, have further encouraged local farmers to adopt and expand potato farming.
Potato cultivation is especially prominent in areas such as Tamankhola, Tarakhola, Nisikhola, Kathekhola Rural Municipality, Dhorpatan, and Galkot Municipality.
This year, 2,860 hectares were planted with potatoes, producing approximately 55,600 metric tons, according to Santosh Adhikari, Information Officer at the Agricultural Knowledge Center, Baglung.
However, both the cultivated area and overall production have decreased compared to last year, when 3,700 hectares were used to grow 56,240 metric tons. This year’s cultivated area is 840 hectares less, and officials attribute the drop in yield to prolonged drought during the planting season.
Farmers sold their produce at an average rate of Rs 35 per kilogram. The Center reported that winter potatoes fetched Rs 40 per kg and spring potatoes Rs 50 per kg last year—higher than this year’s prices.
The Center has also been expanding the cultivation area. Investments included Rs 26 million in fiscal year 2023/24, Rs 15.9 million in 2024/25, and Rs 5.5 million in the current fiscal year. “The upper regions of Baglung are ideal for food potato production. The quality is high, farmers are enthusiastic, and we’ve been working to expand the cultivation area and increase yield for the past three years,” said Adhikari.
He added that the center aims to further expand food potato farming by 43 hectares this year, with improvements in seed quality, irrigation, fertilizer management, and the introduction of new technology.
Potatoes produced in Baglung are supplied to cities such as Baglung, Butwal, Chitwan, and others. Despite a drop in prices and a slight dip in production, local officials remain optimistic about the sector’s long-term potential.
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