Commercial black turmeric farming begins

By Gun Bahadur Roka

Sulikot, Oct. 31: Commercial cultivation of black turmeric has begun in Gorkha. Yadab Basnet, district chairman of the CPN (Unified Socialist) has taken initiative to advance the farming alongside his political career. 

Basnet began the turmeric farming in 25 ropanis of land (approximately 1.27 hectares) in Laxmibazar, Gorkha Municipality-9.

Basnet and Kabita Aryal have jointly invested Rs. 5 million to establish the ‘B and B Agriculture Farm’. 

They began commercial farming this Baishakh by planting 23,000 saplings of black turmeric from 700 seeds sourced from Dolakha district. 

Basnet said, “The seeds from Dolakha have been carefully selected, and now we have planted a large number of turmeric plants.”

The demand for black turmeric in the market is rapidly increasing due to its medicinal properties. 

Basnet highlighted that the cultivation of this crop aims to provide employment and income opportunities for young people in the region. 

He explained, “The objective behind starting black turmeric farming is not just economic gain, but also to offer a new pathway for the youth of this area.”

Despite holding political responsibilities, Basnet said his commitment to advancing agriculture as a key pillar of self-sufficiency and economic growth. 

“While politics is for national development, agriculture is the backbone of people’s livelihoods. Only by combining both efforts we can achieve true economic progress,” he remarked.

The black turmeric is cultivated organically, without the use of chemical fertilisers or pesticides. 

Basnet informed that the black turmeric has numerous health benefits, including boosting immunity, and its potential use in treating cancer, arthritis, and skin-related ailments.

Kul Bahadur Kumbhar, ward chair of Gorkha Municipality-9, praised Basnet’s efforts, calling it a commendable example. 

He said, “When political leaders engage in production-oriented activities, it brings practical change and strengthens the economy.”

It is expected that Basnet’s black turmeric farm will open a new chapter in Gorkha’s agricultural, medicinal, and tourism industries. 

Basnet said, “Focusing solely on politics does not always convey the right message to the public. By combining both political work and agricultural activities, we aim to show that both can coexist and contribute to the community’s well-being.”