Raut gets good return from watermelon farming

By Rabindra Upreti,Bardibas, June 16: Arun Raut, a resident of Bardibas Municipality-13 Bijalpura, has transformed watermelon farming into a lucrative enterprise, earning over Rs. 700,000 annually.

What began four years ago with just 10 katthas of land on Ratu River bank has now expanded to cover 7 bighas. Interestingly, Raut leases all the land, paying a significant sum of Rs. 30,000 per bigha annually for 10 years.

Formerly used for grazing and fallow land, Ratu River bank has now become a symbol of success, inspiring other landowners and youth in the village, according to Ward Chairman Ramkishore Singh.

Raut, a 25-year-old farmer, details that he grows 2,000 watermelon plants per square metre, yielding an impressive 30 kg per plant from March to early June. This season, he sold watermelons worth Rs. 140,000 at a market rate of Rs. 35 per kilo, after covering expenses, aiming to achieve earnings of Rs. 700,000.

His mother, Lalvati, noted a slight downturn in profits due to lower watermelon prices this year, despite expectations of earning of Rs. 850,000 during peak summer months. Nonetheless, she emphasised their commitment to expanding cultivation, assured by traders from Janakpur who regularly purchase from their farm, with surplus sold at local markets.

Employing between 10 to 30 individuals daily, prioritising female workers, Raut's farm supports not only his family but also the local community. Transitioning between watermelons, cauliflower, and gourds on the same land, his operations have provided consistent employment, particularly during the agricultural seasons.

Reflecting on his journey from Malaysia, where he worked for three and a half years post-12th grade, Raut returned disillusioned despite rigorous work hours and modest savings. Since focusing on farming, he has found fulfilment in generating local employment and income, underscoring the potential of agriculture near home.

Watermelon cultivation extends across many villages along the rivers in Mahottari, contributing significantly to the local economy. However, challenges persist, with farmers urging government support for irrigation, subsidized seeds, and better transportation facilities. Addressing these issues, Raut believes, could alleviate obstacles such as competition from imported Indian produce.

Arun Raut's success story in watermelon farming highlights the transformative power of agriculture in rural communities. With the right support and infrastructure, local farming initiatives like Raut's can flourish, benefiting both farmers and the broader community in Bardibas and beyond.