GORKHA: Farmers in Gorkha have earned Rs 111.5 million from litchi sales this year, marking an increase of nearly Rs 11.5 million compared to last year, according to Prakash Bastakoti, Chief of the Agriculture Knowledge Center, Gorkha.
“Last year, litchi worth Rs 100 million was sold,” Bastakoti said, “but this year, the figure has exceeded Rs 110 million.” He attributed the rise in production and earnings to favorable weather conditions and improved orchard management.
“This year’s weather was suitable for litchi cultivation,” he explained. “Timely application of pesticides, along with proper use of fertilizers and irrigation, contributed to better yields.”
Gorkha produced 1,716 metric tons of litchi this year, up from 1,597 metric tons last year. Litchi was cultivated on 187 hectares this season, compared to 180 hectares the previous year. Bastakoti added that farmers earned a good income as the litchis sold at Rs 65 per kilogram.
Palungtar Municipality is recognized as the main litchi farming pocket in the district. Wards 6, 7, and 8 of Palungtar alone account for 80 percent of the total production, with around 30,000 litchi trees and 150 hectares under cultivation in the area.
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