Support Local Farmers

Endowed with altitudinal variations and with its diversity in soil and climatic conditions, Nepal's prospect in agriculture is huge. It is these very variations that make the soil suitable for cultivation of a wide variety of crops – from fruits and vegetables to rice and wheat. Experts say many of the exotic fruits we import can be grown here abundantly. But the grim reality of ballooning import of agricultural produce – that constitute a bulk of our total import – has not only been a drain on our foreign currency reserves, but has also deprived our farmers of a crucial source of livelihood, and consumers of fresh produce that is also packed with vital nutrients. Equally dire are its implications for the nation's overall economy and food security as well. 

This daily recently carried a story highlighting Banke's Kusumya Community Forest User Group's struggle to sell locally produced lemons. Lemon cultivation is said to have been started to create employment opportunities for the economically disadvantaged group in the forest's surrounding areas. However, the lack of market for lemon has turned hopes sour.  One farmer has cited stiff competition from Indian lemons as the reason for the lack of market. According to the Department of Customs statistics, the country has imported around 1.4 million kg of lemon over the first three months of current fiscal year at the cost of Rs. 121 million. Last fiscal, those figures were around 7.8 million kg and Rs. 717 million respectively. 

These statistics stand in stark contrast against the country's huge potential in locally producing abundant lemons and even becoming their exporter. Experts have pointed out that districts like Khotang, Taplejung, Tehrathum, Arghakhanchi, Bhojpur, Surkhet, Rolpa, Dhankuta, Dang, Sindhuli, Doti, Udaypur, Dailekh, Kavrepalanchowk, Morang, Parbat, Nuwakot, and Gulmi have proven potential to produce lemons in a large quantity.   

Given the worrying reality despite the bright prospects, we must fully support local farmers and locally harvested produce. Doing so can be somewhat costly in terms of price, but it will have a surprisingly far-reaching positive impacts, including on the local economy. When consumers purchase food from local farmers, they are directly contributing to the economic stability and growth of their community. 

Money spent at local farms and farmers' markets tends to stay within the community, supporting local businesses and generating more local jobs. This economic boost can lead to improved infrastructure, better schools, and more vibrant local economies, benefiting everyone in the community. Moreover, local food systems significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Such produce also does not require extensive shipping, packaging, and refrigeration, all of which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

Local produce is often fresher and more nutritious than food that has travelled long distances to reach the supermarket shelves. Fruits and vegetables begin to lose nutrients as soon as they are harvested. By the time produce that has been shipped from faraway places, it may have already lost a significant portion of its nutritional value and freshness. In contrast, locally grown produce is typically harvested at peak ripeness and sold immediately afterwards, ensuring that consumers receive the freshest and most nutrient-dense products available.

What's more, such farming is also known to greatly contribute to the preservation of local biodiversity and the ensuing fight against climate change. In conclusion, by choosing to buy local produce, we can be a part of a broader effort towards a more sustainable, resilient and organic food supply system. They deserve easy market access.