Myagdi: Millet farming is witnessing significant growth in the rural parts of Myagdi, driven by a rising demand from urban areas. Once regarded as a rustic food, millet has garnered popularity in cities, prompting increased cultivation in regions such as Malika, Mangala, and Dhawalagiri.
According to National News Agency Nepal, farmers in these villages have embraced millet farming, motivated by the interest of city traders who now visit in private vehicles to purchase the grain. Rana Bahadur Shirpali, a farmer from Malika Rural Municipality-2, mentioned that suppliers offer advance payments before harvest.
Millet cultivation is particularly prominent in Upper Darbyang and Dichyam within Malika rural municipality-6. Last year, these areas produced over 200 muri of millet, and this year, the target is to increase production to 350 muri, as stated by Bir Bahadur BK from Dichyam. The cultivation area has expanded by 120 ropani in the region.
The high demand in urban centers has led to previously barren land b
eing utilized for millet farming, according to Shobha Pun from Dhawalagiri rural municipality. She hired workers for two days of cultivation and anticipates harvesting seven to eight muri this season.
Millet is valued for its nutritional benefits. Nutrition experts highlight its richness in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin B, tryptophan, fiber, and antioxidants. It is recommended for weight management, heart health, strong bones, and digestive health.
The Agricultural Knowledge Center projects a 0.65% increase in millet production in Myagdi this year compared to the previous season. Sanjeeb Bastola, the center’s chief, credits this growth to favorable climatic conditions, lack of major insect infestations, and an uninterrupted supply of chemical fertilizers. Last year, Myagdi’s millet production totaled 2,250 metric tons.
Millet farming occupies 19,498 hectares of the district’s 30,856 hectares of arable land, spanning one municipality and five rural municipalities.