India VS Pakistan
Jhapa, November 28: The Koshi Province is experiencing a substantial surge in the production and export of key cash crops, including tea leaves, black cardamom, ginger, and broom grass, contributing significantly to the regional economy.
The Kakarvitta Plant Quarantine Office reported that, in the initial three months of the current fiscal year 2080-81 BS (2023-24), an impressive 4,331 metric tons of tea leaves, valued at approximately Rs 2.6 billion, were exported to India through the east Kakarvitta point. Notably, Jhapa, Ilam, Panchthar, and Dhanukuta have emerged as focal areas for tea production in eastern Nepal. The European market is witnessing a growing demand for organic tea produced in Nepal.
Furthermore, the export of black cardamom, ginger, and broom grass from the eastern hilly districts via the Kakarvitta point has added to the region’s economic prosperity. Data reveals that black cardamom exports, amounting to Rs 1.21 billion, reached 1,510 metric tons in the same three-month period. Cultivated primarily in Ilam, Panchthar, Tehrathum, Dhankuta, Sankhuwasabha, Bhojpur, and Khotang districts, black cardamom holds significant market value.
In addition, the Kakarvitta point recorded the export of 1,793 metric tons of ginger, equivalent to around Rs 230 million during the same period. Notably, Jhapa and Ilam districts play a crucial role in processing ginger to ensure its quality before export.
Highlighting another cash crop, Chandeshwor Thakur, the Information Officer at the Plant Quarantine Office, revealed that 2,417 metric tons of broom grass, valued at Rs 290 million, were exported in the first three months of the current fiscal. This unique plant, primarily cultivated in the steep hills of Nepal, is in significant demand in India and Bangladesh.
The robust performance of Koshi Province in cash crop production and export not only strengthens the regional economy but also underscores the growing global recognition of Nepal’s high-quality agricultural products. The efforts of local farmers and producers, combined with favorable market conditions, have contributed to this positive trend.
