MADHYABINDU: Commercial banana farmers in Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East) have complained of not receiving fair prices for their produce, despite consumers paying high prices in the market.
Farmers say they are being forced to sell bananas at low rates, creating a wide gap between farm-gate and retail prices.
Local farmer Durga Prasad Bhurtel from Madhyabindu Municipality-6 said the situation has become unsustainable, forcing some to consider quitting the business.
“We are currently getting only around Rs 5 to 6 per banana. Considering the cost, effort, and risks, it is becoming difficult to sustain,” he said, adding that pests, storms, and hailstorms have also affected production and increased costs.
Similarly, Phulkumari Mahato from Kawasoti Municipality-13 said she had invested in banana farming expecting better returns but is now increasingly discouraged.
“We have invested lakhs in farming, but are forced to sell at low prices, while consumers pay high prices. It’s hard to understand who benefits in between,” she said.
According to the Kawasoti Agricultural Wholesale Market Management Committee, bananas are currently being sold at around Rs 132 per dozen in wholesale and up to Rs 150 in retail markets. However, farmers receive only Rs 60 to 72 per dozen, highlighting a significant price disparity.
Farmers have called for measures such as controlling middlemen, fixing minimum support prices, and ensuring direct market access to provide relief.
Information Officer at the Agriculture Development Office Sanjay Dhakal said banana farming is currently spread over 551 hectares in the district. While production is increasing, he noted that market management and price regulation remain imbalanced.
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