Bajura, April 29: Farmers in Bajura are increasingly turning to apple farming as improved road access connects remote villages to national markets.
Previously, poor transportation limited interest in apple cultivation, with unsold produce often going to waste. But expanding road networks have enabled farmers to transport apples directly from their homes to urban centres, significantly boosting profitability.
Chakra Bahadur Kathayat, a farmer from Budhinanda Municipality–8, said apple farming has eased livelihoods. “Now vehicles reach our doorsteps, and we can send apples straight to market,” he said, noting a shift from traditional crops like paddy, wheat, and barley.
Apple production is now widespread across areas including Himali, Swamikartik Khapar, Jagannath, Budhinanda, Badimalika, Gaumul, Budhiganga, and Khaptad Chhededaha. Pandusen in Badimalika Wards 9 and 10 leads in output.
According to Jasiram Sahani, chief of the Agriculture Knowledge Centre in Bajura, apple farming now covers around 170 hectares. Government transport subsidies have further supported market access, allowing organic apples from the district to reach cities nationwide.
Farmers are also diversifying into improved varieties such as Fuji, Gala, and Golden apples alongside local types.
Last year, Bajura produced 1,020 metric tonnes of apples, of which nearly 600 metric tonnes were sold across the country—marking a significant shift toward commercial farming. #Nepal
