Orange production to rise in Syangja

By Radhakrishna Dumre

Waling (Syangja), Nov. 1 : Orange production in Syangja district is expected to increase this year, thanks to favourable weather conditions and reduced pest infestation, according to local agricultural authorities.

Eight years ago, oranges were cultivated on around 850 hectares of land in the district. Today, the cultivation area has expanded significantly to 2,350 hectares, said Ajay Adhikari, chief of the Syangja Unit of the National Citrus Super Zone under the Prime Minister Agriculture Modernisation Project.

Last year, Syangja produced about 19,000 metric tonnes of oranges, and the yield is projected to be even higher this year. Farmers in the district earned over Rs 1.12 billion from orange sales last season.

Local farmers are optimistic and delighted with the expected increase in production. “Because of suitable weather and minimal pest impact, Syangja oranges are fetching good prices in the market this year,” said Bodharaj Aryal, chairperson of the Orange Super Zone Management Committee, Syangja. 

He added that authorities are in the process of collecting data to determine the exact rise in production and income this season.

According to Aryal, Syangja oranges are already being sold in markets, with demand remaining high. “The oranges have turned sweet and are beginning to ripen with their signature yellow colour,” he said.

Traders have started reaching villages to purchase the fruit. “Buyers have already arrived in our village to purchase oranges, but we’re waiting to decide when to sell for the best price,” said Tilak Gurung, a farmer from Waling Municipality–5.

In recent years, the number of commercial orange farmers in Syangja has been steadily increasing. Farmers are drawn to orange cultivation as it requires relatively less labour while offering good returns. 

Federal, provincial and local governments have all prioritised orange farming and provided various forms of support to farmers, according to Aryal.

Oranges are harvested in Syangja from July to March, depending on the variety of oranges. The district is gradually developing orange farming as a major source of income.

Currently, orange cultivation has expanded beyond household-level production and is being practised across nearly all 11 local units of the district. 

Putalibazaar, Waling, Bhirkot, and Galyang municipalities, along with Aandhikhola, Phedikhola, Biruwa, Harinas, and Arjunchaupari rural municipalities, have been identified as major orange pocket areas.