Salyan exports agricultural and livestock products worth Rs2.24 billion

Salyan district, Nepal, has achieved significant economic growth through the export of agricultural and livestock products, generating approximately $16.8 million in the last fiscal year. Local authorities reported that 357,232 tonnes of produce and 30,620 livestock were supplied to markets beyond the district.

Agricultural goods, including vegetables, fruits, and grains, accounted for $12.2 million of the total exports. Livestock sales, primarily of goats, pigs, and buffaloes, contributed an additional $4.2 million. This burgeoning trade has empowered around 54,000 farming families in Salyan, fostering self-reliance and improving living standards. The economic opportunities have also curbed the need for seasonal migration to India for employment.

Mahesh Acharya, head of the Agriculture Development Office in Salyan, highlighted the success of specific crops, noting exports of fresh vegetables, ginger, oranges, kiwis, and potatoes that collectively generated substantial revenue. Other products like maize, millet, fruit saplings, honey, and spices also contributed to the district's export earnings. These goods are distributed across Nepal and in several Indian cities, with Salyan's ginger even reaching French markets.

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In the past, farmers grew fruits, vegetables and other crops primarily for subsistence, producing just enough to meet basic needs such as salt and cooking oil. Now, with various support programmes provided by the office, they have adopted commercial farming.

Acharya emphasized the transformation from subsistence farming to commercial enterprise, facilitated by support programs. "In the past, farmers grew fruits, vegetables and other crops primarily for subsistence, producing just enough to meet basic needs such as salt and cooking oil," he stated. "Now, with various support programmes provided by the office, they have adopted commercial farming."

The livestock sector has also seen considerable commercialization. Anup Shrestha, chief of the Veterinary Hospital and Livestock Service Expert Centre, reported significant exports of goats, pigs, and buffaloes. He noted that animal husbandry has shifted from a household activity to a commercial venture, with income supporting family expenses and educational pursuits. "Given the rising demand for local goat breeds, many farmers have prioritised commercial goat rearing," Shrestha said, adding that approximately 70 percent of district households are involved in animal husbandry.

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Given the rising demand for local goat breeds, many farmers have prioritised commercial goat rearing.