Rupandehi: As was the case in previous years, farmers in Rupandehi are once again confronting the challenges of insufficient supplies of chemical fertilizers and seeds, compounded by unseasonal rains. These adverse conditions have left farmers anxious about the upcoming winter crop cultivation following a rain-soaked paddy harvest.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the unseasonal rains have already drenched the paddy crops, leaving farmers worried about the subsequent sowing of wheat. The scarcity of essential agricultural inputs like chemical fertilizers and seeds is exacerbating the situation, as many are still in the process of harvesting paddy planted in late summer.
Sumer Yadav, a farmer from Marchwar rural municipality-2, expressed his distress over the lack of adequate fertilizer and seeds. As he prepares his fields for wheat and legumes, Yadav highlighted the dependency on India for the import of necessary fertilizers due to the government’s inability to provide timely agricultural inputs. He also noted the risks faced from border security when attempting to import these materials.
Similarly, Dinesh Lodh from Kotahimai rural municipality-7 faces the daily challenge of securing chemical fertilizers. He frequently finds himself standing in line at a cooperative early in the morning, hoping to acquire the necessary supplies. If unsuccessful, he is forced to turn to the Indian market. Lodh emphasized the critical role of fertilizers in farming, describing agriculture as impossible without them.
Meanwhile, Sahul Harijan from Sammarimai rural municipality-7 is dealing with the aftermath of unseasonal rains that destroyed much of his paddy crop due to inadequate drainage systems. He is currently salvaging what remains of his crop for rice production while expressing a deep sense of uncertainty about when these agricultural challenges might cease.
The recurring struggles faced by farmers in Rupandehi underline the urgent need for systemic solutions to address supply chain disruptions and climate-related impacts on agriculture.