Fungal disease threatens rice harvest in Palpa
Summary
A fungal disease known locally as kalopoke is spreading through rice fields in Palpa district, threatening harvests and potentially cutting production by 15 to 20 percent. Farmers suspect infected seeds and are calling on authorities to investigate the outbreak and its source.
Key Points
- A fungal disease called kalopoke is damaging rice crops across Palpa, especially hybrid varieties nearing harvest.
- Farmers estimate rice production in the district could fall by 15 to 20 percent if the outbreak continues.
- Agricultural experts suspect contaminated seeds may be the source of the infection.
- Farmers have urged seed suppliers, the Agriculture Knowledge Centre and local technicians to investigate the cause and contain the damage.
