SARLAHI: As Maghe Sankranti approaches, sugarcane farmers in Sarlahi are working intensively to produce jaggery ahead of the festival season.
Farmers are now selling sugarcane to local jaggery-producing industries, known as “crusher” units, instead of waiting for attractive government rates or selling to sugar mills.
Currently, sugar mills offer up to Rs 675 per quintal for sugarcane, while local crusher units pay only Rs 600 per quintal. Farmers are willing to accept the Rs 75 per quintal loss mainly because of faster cash payments.
“Selling to the mills requires waiting for 7 to 8 months for payment. Local industries pay cash within 15 to 20 days. Even if the price is lower, receiving money quickly helps cover household expenses and festival costs,” a local farmer said.
Local crusher units also contribute to the rural economy. According to farmers, producing one quintal of jaggery requires roughly seven quintals of sugarcane.
These small industries generate employment at the local level, allowing young people to work within their villages.
However, cold weather in the Terai has created challenges for jaggery production. Farmers dry sugarcane bagasse, known locally as “chhokra,” to use as fuel, reducing firewood costs. But limited sunlight and cold conditions make it difficult to dry the bagasse, forcing farmers to purchase firewood at higher prices.
Despite these challenges, farmers are working day and night to meet consumer demand and ensure they have cash on hand during the festival.
Photos: Nepal Photo Library
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