Nov 04, Kathmandu - Tulsipur Sub-Metropolitan City-19, Chhillikot, Nepal — Farmers in the region are facing a tough season as ginger prices plummet, leaving many unable to harvest or sell their produce profitably. Among them is Bikash Khadka, who has an estimated 50 quintals of ginger in his field but has yet to dig it out due to the low market price.

Last year, Khadka sold his ginger at Rs. 55-60 per kilogram, but this season, prices have dropped to Rs. 30-35, discouraging him from harvesting. "The current market price is so low that it doesn’t even cover the cost of production," Khadka lamented. Disappointed by the poor returns, he has postponed digging up his crop, which could have otherwise provided a good income.

Khadka, who shifted from other crops to ginger this year, expressed concern that the low prices could mean his investment might not be recovered. He mentioned that adverse weather conditions have also damaged some of his crop. Last year, he managed to sell ginger worth Rs. 200,000.

Similarly, Palbahadur Khadka from Chhilli Kot invested Rs. 50,000 in ginger seeds last year after witnessing good prices. However, with current market rates, his potential earnings have shrunk to Rs. 65,000, making repayment of his loan and interest difficult. "It’s hard to imagine how I’ll pay back the loan with these prices," he said.

The influx of cheaper ginger imported from India has further depressed local prices, making it difficult for farmers to sell their produce. Local farmers argue that selling at current rates doesn’t even cover their expenses, let alone profit. Many farmers have borrowed money to buy seeds and inputs, and are now struggling to repay their loans.

Most farmers in the area have turned to ginger cultivation due to its higher income potential compared to other crops and the absence of wild animal damage in the hills. However, the current low prices have put many in financial distress, according to local resident Purnabahadur Pun.

Approximately 30-35 households in the Chhilli Kot area are engaged in ginger farming, with over 600 quintals sold annually from the region. Farmers hope that local government support in marketing and export facilitation could help stabilize prices and improve their livelihoods.