Mahottari farmers earn from elephant-foot yam
Summary
Mahottari farmers are earning steady income from elephant-foot yam after continuous rainfall damaged other vegetable crops. The tuber’s low irrigation needs, resilience, and storage value have made it a major cash crop in Bardibas, Gaushala, Bhangaha, Aurahi and Matihani areas.
Key Points
- Continuous rainfall damaged many vegetable crops in Mahottari, but elephant-foot yam remained a reliable source of income for farmers.
- The crop is widely cultivated across several municipalities and is valued for low irrigation, low investment, and resistance to heavy rain.
- Some farmers say they earn up to Rs. 500,000 annually from elephant-foot yam, which is sold in local markets and supplied to other districts.
- Farmers are urging local governments to build cold storage facilities so they can store the produce longer and sell it at better prices.
